Kaieteur News

Bharrat Jagdeo

Section of the Bharrat Jagdeo River Bridge

…asdemandsUS$1.2millionfrom

‘Govt. begging Exxon for crumbs’

…ChrisRamsaysvaguelanguageinlicencefor7thprojectmayindicateamendmenttoPSA

The Government ofGuyana(GoG) in the Production Licence(PL)fortheseventh project- Hammerhead- has requiredExxonMobiltopay an additional US$1.2M, an arrangement which may amount to an amendment of the2016oilcontract.

This is according to prominent Attorney-at-Law and Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram In an invited comment, the Lawyer noted that the

Hammerhead Licence requires ExxonMobil to pay US$400,000ayearforthree years—a total of US $1.2 million under Clause (gg)(ii), which provides that the sum be paid into a government account “to be used by the Government for the preparation of the audit scope and the procurement of third-party auditors to supplement the Minister's resources and develop institutional capacity for the ongoingconductofaudits.”

Ram said it was unclear whether the independent audit referred to is the same astheMinisterialauditunder Article 23 of the 2016 Petroleum Agreement and 1 5 of Annex C thereto (AuditandInspectionRights of Government), the cost of which is “at [the] Minister's solecostandexpense”.

To this end, the lawyer pointedout,“Ifitisthesame audit, the clause amounts to an implied or de facto

amendment of the

Agreement-somethingthat, underArticle 31.2, can only be done “by mutual consent in writing”–not in a licence butbywayofanAddendum to the Agreement for which thereisaprecedent.”

Ram believes that if the Licenceisnotanamendment to existing contract, then it signals greater trouble for Guyanese.

According to him, “Worse yet, if it is not (an amendment) it means that if theGovernmentbegsExxon for crumbs, it would be prepared to use a licence to showitsgenerosity.”

He reminded the GoG that Article 31 2 of the Agreement makes provision for either party to lawfully request an amendment or modification of the wider Agreement – without any conditions or limitations “Meaningful negotiations mustthentakeplace.Neither party can refuse to make reasonable efforts towards an amicable resolution,” Ramadded.

On Sunday, Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat said that the provision in the Licence is for“continuousauditing”.In response Ram said he failed to definitively say whether the monies will finance the cost oil audits, required under the PSA. Further, the advocate argued that the vague language in the Licence is more evidence of

Venezuelan chops countryman during drinking spree

A Venezuelan national is nursing a chop wound to his thighafterhewasattackedbyanotherVenezuelannationalat abaratBestVillage,WestCoastDemerara.

Police said the wounding was committed on Geraldy Angel,byanotherVenezuelan,whichoccurredatabout00:30 hrsonSunday

The police release said Alianda Martin, a 20-year-old femaleVenezuelanofVreed-en-Hoop,WCD,alongwithher husband,andotherfamilymembersweredrinkingatabarin the village, where an argument ensued between she and her husband,OsmelFiguera.

ThereleasesaidseveralothermaleVenezuelannationals began fighting. One of the men, who was allegedly armed withacutlass,dealtonechoptothevictim'sleftthigh.Hewas rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he wasadmitted.Hisconditionisregardedasstable.

Policesaidseveralpersonswerequestioned,butnouseful informationwasreceivedduetothelanguagebarrier Checks werealsomadeforthesuspect,buthewasnotseeninthearea.

the absence of seriousness with which the Petroleum Agreement and its derivativesaredealtwith.

He said, “But the Governmentrefusestosetup a Petroleum Commission as ithaspromisedtobecauseit issatisfiedwithcrumbsover seeking an amendment or modification Its feeble

contract”.

On Saturday, this newspaper reported that the administration inserted a provision into the Licence which will require the company to pay an additional US$1.2 million for the conduct of audits, althoughithasoftenmadeit clear that it is prohibited fromincreasingthefinancial burdens of ExxonMobil and can therefore not seek a renegotiationofthelopsided oil deal, or any additional

Ram

benefitsforcitizens.

Minister Bharrat has sinceclarifiedthatthesumis not cost recoverable

Stakeholders have often argued that government can capitalise on these licenses when approving more projects, to seek additional revenue for the people of Guyana.

Government officials have however been reluctant, insisting that the financial burdens of the contractor cannot be increased, in keeping with the terms of the 2016 Pr

Agreement(PSA).

The Stability Clause of contractstatesat32.2,“After t

conformance with Article 15,theGovernmentshallnot increase the economic burdens of Contractor under this Agreement by applying to this Agreement or the

d thereunderanyincreaseofor any new petroleum related fiscal obligation, including, but not limited to, any new taxes whatsoever, any new royalty,duties,fees,charges, value-added tax (VAT) or otherimposts.”

Meanwhile, 32.3 of the agreement goes on to point out that should there be any change in the laws which causes an adverse effect on the contractor's economic benefits, “the Government shall promptly take any and all affirmative actions to restore the lost or impaired economic benefits to Contractor, so that Contractorreceivesthesame economic benefit under the Agreement that it would have received prior to the change in law or its interpretation, application, orimplementation.”

Bethatasitmay,Exxon has agreed to pay the additional revenue over to the state, raising doubts about the “sanctity of contract” and government's refusal to seek more financial benefits from its resources.

Attorney-at-Law, Christopher

Kaieteur News

Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: DR. GLENN LALL - TEL: 624-6456

Editor-In-Chief: NIGEL WILLIAMS Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Towards a healthy nation

Anation’s wealth is only as strong as the health of its people.Yettoday,Guyanafacesahealthcrisisthatthreatens both the wellbeing of individuals and the capacity of the State to deliver services. Chronic, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are overwhelming us and much of it is preventable.

PAHO’s latest data tell a blunt truth: NCDs are the leading cause of death worldwide and in theAmericas. In Guyanaasof2016,68%ofalldeathsstemmedfromNCDs, especially cardiovascular disease (34%), cancers (8%), diabetes (8%), and chronic respiratory disease (3%). The riskofdyingprematurely(betweenages30-70)fromNCDs inGuyanaisabout31%.

Letthatsinkin.Almostathirdofuswilllikelyloselife yearstodiseasesthat,withdifferenthabitsandgovernment action, could be prevented. More than half of adults are overweight or obese (56.4% in 2022) in Guyana. The Ministry of Health reports obesity rates of about 41% in males and 56.5% in females in the adolescent and adult population. Hypertension affects roughly 25-26% of Guyanese adults: those whose blood pressure is high (systolice”140mmHg,ordiastolice”90mmHg),orwho are on medication. But nearly half of those are unaware of theircondition.

Diabetesispresentinapproximately11-12%ofadults, either diagnosed or un treatment. These figures undercut any belief that “most people are fine.”And they show that our health system is burdened both by treating advanced disease,andbydealingwithcomplicationsthatwerenever prevented. Prevention isn’t taken seriously enough. Many Guyaneseseeillnessanditscureasthesoleresponsibilityof doctorsandhospitals,ratherthansomethingshapeddailyby diet,activity,lifestyle,andcommunitynorms.

Junkfood,fastfoodandprocessedsugararebecoming staples, especially among younger people and urban dwellers, at the expense of local fruits, vegetables, fish, roots and tubers. Screening gaps: many have never had basic checks blood pressure, sugar, cholesterol, meaning diagnosis is late. Weak regulation of food imports, sugar content,advertisingofunhealthyfoods,andpossiblyfiscal policiesfavouringunhealthydiets.

TheStatecannotsimplyissuewarnings.Thescaleofthe problem demands decisive public policy, community engagement, and individual responsibility Among measures that can be implemented include: restricting unhealthyfoodimportsandfastfoodsproliferation:impose standards on sugar, salt, trans fats: tax sugary drinks, regulateadvertising(especiallytochildren),requireclearer labelling.

Additionally, efforts should be made to promote local food—fruits,roots,vegetables,fishnotjustasnostalgiaor culture, but as central to national health strategy and food security. We must also scale up primary health care screening and intervention: blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol checks need to be accessible, regular, and effective. Launch community-based programmes and mobileclinics.

Public education campaign must also be intensified. Citizensmustknowthatprevention,diet,physicalactivity, reducing sedentary behaviour can change life outcomes. Educationmuststartinschoolandcontinueinworkplaces, local communities. Finally, at a policy level we must strengthen the frameworks with laws to limit junk food, support healthy defaults. Government must walk the talk, nutrition in schools, food procurement policies favouring local,healthyproduce.

Asickpopulationislessproductive,moreexpensiveto treat,lessabletoengageinnationaldevelopment.Withoil, gas, mining and agriculture promising economic growth, weriskunderminingitviasoaringhealthbills,lostlabour, loweredqualityoflife.ThePAHOdataisnotjustnumbersit isawarning.Guyananeedstotakecontrolofitshealthnow

National Shame: Guyana Police Communications Unit Mired in Blunders

DEAREDITOR

T h e C o r p o r a t e Communications Unit (CCU)oftheGuyanaPolice Force continues to fail this nation.Whatshouldbea modern, professional armoftheForcehasinstead become a source of embarrassment, frustration, andpublicdistrust.

Timeandagain,theCCU issues statements that are incomplete, inaccurate, or poorly structured eroding confidenceinthe very institution it is meanttorepresent. Take for instance the AdrianaYounge matter.The CCUmishandledthisrelease so badly that instead of offeringclarityand reassurance, it created confusion and outrage There was no sense of accuracy, compassion, or timelinessonlyarushed, careless approach that showed total disregard for the public’s need to be properlyinformed.

This was not an isolated case.Severalrecentreleases have misinformed the nation:

1 C h e d d i J a g a n InternationalAirportbribery scandal(September2025)

The CCU release withheld critical details about officers demanding money from a passenger Only after independent media

exposedthefullstorydid the nation understand the seriousnessofthecorruption atCJIA.

2 South Rupununi murder report (September 27,2025)

The official statement contradicted investigative findings. It misrepresented the suspects’ relationships, confusedthe sequence of events, and left the public unsure about what truly happened in MaruranauVillage.

3. Fatal accident releases (July–September 2025)

Several accident updates inRegionThreeandRegion Fourcarriedglaringerrorsin victims’ names, incorrect dates,andeven wrong locations

Familiesofvictimswereleft further traumatised, and the credibility of the Force was openlyquestioned.

4. C o m m u n i t y outreach reports (Ongoing 2025)

Weekly reports continue to be generic “copy-andpaste” templates with no context,nooutcomes,andno relevancetothe public. They read like filler rather than real communication.

What makes this decline worse is that the CCU is not understaffed.Theheadofthe Unit is assisted by a senior police superintendent, yet the quality of work continues to drop This shows the problem is leadership, not resources.

The Guyana Police Force cannot claim to be modern and transparent while tolerating a communicationsdepartment so outdated, careless, and counterproductive Unless the current leadership of the CCUisheldaccountablethe cycleof

nationalembarrassmentwill continue.

The Guyana Police Force deserves better The people of Guyana deserve better Regards,

Evenmoreembarrassing is that Radio Eve-Leary, a separate entity with fewer resources, consistently producesclearer,more professional, and more engaging content. How can the official communications arm of the Force, with more people and direct authority, be outperformed by a radio stationoperatingonless?

S.D.T.Fordyce

Subryanville and Farnum community ground - abuse of power

DEARE

DITOR

This letter concerns the ongoingmatteroftheMayor & City Council (M&CC)

purporting to give permission since March 2025 to David Sugrim as “Owner”ofMae’s Schools to “use the Farnum Ground” for one year

This happened shortly afterthefireofawoodenand concretebuildingwhichwas uninsured and on 3 lots of land. The Farnum Playfield isanopengreengrass

community ground locatedintheresidentialarea

o f S u b r y a n v i l l e , G e o r g e t o w n T h e permission is vague. It did notidentifythedetailsofthe “use”.Itdidnotdefinethe area of usage of the groundconsistingof24lots. No reasons were given for thepermission.

The Mayor and 2 City Councillors admitted on 9th September2025that:

1 There was no consultation of residents before giving permission to useFarnumGround;

2. There was no written applicationbyDavidSugrim seeking permission to use Farnum;

3. The permission was for temporary tents and did not include prefab structures.

Permission was given to David Sugrim as Owner of Mae’sSchools.However,he does not have any valid business or corporate registration in his name for Mae’sSchoolsandsecondly, theTransportsforproperties oftheburntschoolarenotin hisname.

Prefabricated buildings

In or around late August

2025, construction commenced using almost half of the playfield. The green grass was removed and replaced with sand, concretesteel

columns, prefab structures and building materials Welding was used.Heavydutytrucksand other vehicles drive freely acrossthegroundevenwhile theschoolsareinsession.

Despite being told no permission was granted for prefabbuildings,MrSugrim continued the buildings Mae’s Schools are privately owned. They consist of 4 categories of fee-paying schools.If,asreported2000 studentsattendthe4schools, itfollowsthattheownersare in receipt of fees for profit for classes during school hours in addition to lessons. Mr Sugrim completed the one storey of the prefab structures and is in the process of adding a second storey

Regulatory agencies In the meantime, the M&CC have delayed their statutory meeting to 13 October 2025 to discuss what action to take, challenging residents totakethemattertocourt.

TheCentralHousingand PlanningAuthority(CHPA), Ministries of Housing & Water, Education, Public Works (Electrical) and Labour have not responded to enquiriesfrom residents concerning breaches, whether approval was given for prefab structures, whetherMae’sSchoolswere licenced for 2024 and 2025, whethersatisfiedwith children being on an active construction site with materials strewn all over, with vehicles driving on the ground, whether the electrical supply and hangingwires attached to a tree have been approved and whether all health and safety standardsareobserved.

Time for Reset – New Residential Building on ThirdAvenue,Subryanville

The second aspect is the regulatory roles of M&CC and CHPA and the grant of buildingpermits.

On one of the 3 burnt lots,thedamagedconcrete3 storey building was fixed and is being used by the children. The front wall of

thisbuildingextendsrighton the front boundary of the land leaving no space for a fence.Thebackofthe building has structures that extend up to the back fence of adjoining neighours. The side of the building is just a few feet away from an adjoining neighbour This is inbreach of the by-laws of the Municipal District and Councils Act. There are no parking facilities within the property and no substantial openspace.

It appears that M&CC and CHPA have now receivedaplanfora6-storey building which is undated. Residents have requested from CHPA, Mayor and relevant bodies to be informed and consulted before any application is considered. Residents have notbeeninformed.

The main issue that the M&CC, City Engineer, CHPA, Ministry of Education, Environmental agencymustconsideristhat Subryanville is a residential community with restrictive covenants listed on the Transports, stating that no businessmustbecarriedon. Itwouldbedifficulttoargue that 4 categories of Schools forprivatefeepayingarenot 4businesses.Theeffectsof (Continuedonpage16)

Guyana deserves a higher level of debate

DEAREDITOR, I read with interest the letter published on October 3, 2025, captioned “Measuresannouncedbythe President will do nothing to ease the pressure on the Guyanadollar.”Asastudent of international finance currentlyservingmycountry abroad, I noted with particular attention the comments attributed to Dr

Terrence Campbell regarding foreign exchange interventions and broader economicmanagement.

For any national debate onsuchcriticalmatterstobe meaningful, it must rest on

evidence rather than conjecture. In that spirit, I wishtorespectfullyclarifya number of inaccuracies in Dr Campbell’sassertions.

First, the claim that the Bank of Guyana’s foreign exchange interventions

signal “malignant” economic mismanagement is both inaccurate and misplaced Central bank interventions are standard policytoolsusedgloballyto smooth short-term volatility and ensure exchange rate stability particularly in

rapidly expanding

economies such as Guyana’s The scale of intervention today reflects not weakness, but the extraordinary expansion of trade, investment, and capitalflows.

In 2020, Guyana’s economy was valued at approximatelyUS$5billion; by 2024, it had grown fivefold to US$25 billion, and is projected to reach US$28 billion by the end of 2 0 2 5 W i t h s u c h unprecedented expansion, it is entirely logical that the volume of foreign currency entering the market would increase proportionately. That is why it is difficult to comprehend why these assumptions are being made byDr.Campbellthatattempt to make out the situation as some sort of mini apocalyptic occurrence These interventions are possiblepreciselybecauseof prudent fiscal management and strengthened reserves. These interventions are deliberateactionfollowinga triedandtestedmodel.

M o r e o v e r , H i s Excellency President Irfaan Alihasnotactedunilaterally, but has convened a team of expertsandfinancialleaders to develop a structured response. The introduction ofninenewpolicymeasures

aimstostrengthenGuyana’s financial system, expand

access, and enhance oversight to ensure fairness and transparency in the foreign exchange market Notably, these measures were well received by the banking community, reflecting their alignment with sound financial practice.

S e c o n d , t h e

characterisation of government spending as “reckless” or focused on “poorqualityinfrastructure”

o v e r l o o k s t h e t r a n s f o r m a t i o n a l development underway across the country Investments in farm-tomarket roads, bridges, housing, schools, hospitals, a n d o t h e r p u b l i c infrastructure are central to the Government’s clearly articulated national developmentplan.Oneonly had to listen to Dr Bharat Jagdeooutlinethestrategya week ago in a clear manner InstitutionssuchastheInterAmerican Development Bank and the Caribbean Development Bank have

repeatedly endorsed Guyana’sdevelopmentdrive as essential for long-term competitiveness and sustainabledevelopment.

The International MonetaryFund(IMF)itself, in its most recent Executive Board report, commended the Guyanese authorities’ commitment to balancing development needs with prudentmacroeconomicand fiscalpolicies.Thisevidence speaksforitself.

Third, the assertion that

Government policy neglects the non-oil economy is contradicted by the data. Non-oil GDP continues to

y agriculture, construction, ICT, and services. Targeted investments in agroprocessing, aquaculture, forestry, and tourism are expanding Guyana’s export base and diversifying the economy The evidence points to deliberate and balanced diversification initiativesintheeconomy

On the issue of gold smuggling, this is indeed a challenge faced by many gold-producing countries However, here in Guyana, it is being addressed through

licensing for traders, and centralised monitoring via the Guyana Gold Board. Inter-agency coordination and the introduction of technology-driven tracking systems are enhancing

n

p

n c y a n d enforcement While these reforms take time to yield full results, progress is visible and measurable. To allege government complicity without substantiation is both unfair andcounterproductivetothe collective national effort to curbillicitactivities.

Finally, Guyana remains fully compliant with international financial standards, including the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) 40 Recommendations.Our (Continuedonpage06)

Guyanese Economic Mobility thru Small and Medium-Sized Businesses

DEAREDITOR

On the campaign trail, President Irfaan Ali underscored the imperative of broad-based economic developmentthatreachesall levelsandstrataofGuyanese communities. He made the development of small businesses a priority of his administration.

LastThursday,duringhis weekly press conference, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo announced that the Government will swiftly establishaUSD200million fund to support small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) The fund will provide access to capital for both growing existing ventures and launching new enterprises. Across Guyana, this could mean expanding

small farms, developing sustainable livelihoods, fostering arts and crafts in hinterlandcommunities,and supporting growth in local construction. The potential applications are numerous, andthisapproachalignswith ensuring development reaches entrepreneurial Guyanesebeyondtheoiland gassector

SMBs, typically defined by their modest number of employees and moderate annual revenues, are the

economies They foster

employment,andstrengthen

significance is essential for

communities pursuing balanced and inclusive growth.

OneofSMBs’mostvital contributionsisjobcreation, especially in communities distant from Georgetown. Unlike large oil sector corporations, SMBs are often more labor-intensive and less automated, which t

employment needs and broader social impact. This is the development pathway Guyananeeds.Ofnoteisthe policyemphasisonreaching women and Indigenous groups, which can elevate household incomes across thesecommunities.

SMBs also tend to have strong local roots They sourcematerialslocally,hire

(Continuedonpage06)

Stop The Embarrassment

DEAREDITOR

, It’sbadenoughthatWest Indies lost in a stunning defeat against Nepal. But nowintheirfirsttestagainst India, they were humiliated. It was an embarrassment to the region as well as West Indies fans. At one point in the game, I found myself rooting for India purely on the basis that their cricket was top-notch, from their bowling to their batting to their fielding Everything about the Indian team was worldclass.

How did India become suchasolidteamtoday?Itis saidthatIndia’stalentpoolis soextensivethattheycanfill three professional teams. I was turned on to Indian cricket with the advent of Kapil Dev He perfected the line and length of fast

bowling though the Indian team was still an average team.

However, four things

stand out: India’s commitment to developing local talent and giving them exposure rather a political structure in the past. Their

use of cutting-edge technologyintheircoaching to uncover weaknesses and correctthem.Theirfocuson fast bowling and a mandatory fitness test These are simple but effectivetechniques.

Bill Belichick won the most superbowl rings in the NFL (National Football League). His coaching style wasfine-tuningthebasics.It didn’tmatterifhisteamwon or lost. The next morning at six o’clock he had his team on the field going through

thebasics.Hesaiditwasall aboutthebasics.

Irememberwhen“ShellShield” matches were like test matches. That was how good the West Indies were. The West Indies team today is a stark contrast. Not even thecommentatorscanagree. One is saying “they need more character” and the otherissaying“It’snotabout character, they need to fight”.

Maybelessdependenton the West Indies Cricket Board is needed Maybe Guyana should have more control in the development and operation of local talent andtournaments,promoting cricket in every region and village for it to once again becomeanationalpride.

BestRegards, DanielSingh

Time for Transparency on Ministers’“Doctorates” and Taxpayer-Funded Scholarships

DEAREDITOR, The recent revelation that Ian Andre Roberts fabricated his academic credentials to secure a lucrative job in the United

States should force Guyanese to take a long, hard

l o o k a t h o m e , particularly at those who proudly carry the title

“Doctor.”

In2016,SNreportedthat two sitting government ministers, Nicolette Henry andAnnette Ferguson, were among several individuals benefitingfromstate-funded scholarships. According to the report, Henry, then MinisterwithintheMinistry of Education, was awarded $3 3 million in taxpayer

funds for her first year of a doctoral programme in public health at a U.S. university Ferguson, then Minister withintheMinistryofPublic Infrastructure, received $3.38millionforhersecond yearofstudies

in Public Policy ManagementattheU.K.

The revelation was

Guyana deserves a higher level...

Frompage05

continuedremovalfrombothFATF’s“grey” and “black” lists is a significant national achievement, made possible through strong institutional reforms led by the Attorney General, Hon. Anil Nandlall, S.C., and his dedicated team. To suggest a return to the failed policies of the 1970s and 1980s is baseless alarmism that does not reflect the current strength of Guyana’s macroeconomic fundamentals or its robust fiscaldiscipline.

Constructivecriticismisessentialinany

democracyandshouldalwaysbewelcomed. However,itmustberootedinfactanddriven by the shared goal of national progress. To dismiss evidence-based policy measures while offering no credible alternatives contributes little to informed public discourse.

Guyana deserves a higher level of debate one that lifts the national conversationabovepartisanshipandtowards collectiveproblem-solving.

Yoursfaithfully, SasenarineSingh

troubling then — and it’s more troubling now

Minister Parag had highlighted that other political figures and their relatives,includingTabitha Sarabo-Halley and

Alicia Roopnaraine (daughterofformerMinister Rupert Roopnaraine), also benefited from similar scholarships (KN, April 23,2021).Evenmore

disturbing, there appeared to be no clear record that some of these recipients ever completed theirstudies.

This raises serious

questionsthatcannotremain unanswered.

· Did Nicolette Henry ever complete her doctorate inpublichealth?

If so, at which institution, and can her dissertation and credentials beindependentlyverified?

· Did Annette Ferguson, Alicia Roopnaraine, and Tabitha Sarabo-Halley complete their respective programmes,andiftheydid, do they have any binding obligationto serve the Guyanese people whose taxes funded theireducation?

After the Ian Roberts fiasco,thetimeforsilenceis over Guyana cannot afford another generation of unverified “doctors” and politically connected beneficiaries.The government owes the public a transparent accounting of every dollar spent and proof that every degree supposedly earned with public funds is, in fact, legitimate.

Accountability is not optional. It’s a duty — and Guyanesedeservenoless.

Regards

Dr.DevanandBhagwan

Hostile forces to the PPPC?

DEAREDITOR

, At no time during the past 10 years has CRG been hostile towards the PPPC. We may have differing opinions,buttostooptothat level and make personal attacks against the CRG claiming that it is a hostile force towards the PPPC becauseofthedifferingview with Minister Bharrat’s perspectiveoncashgrantsis the avoidance of an intelligentdiscussion,which theVicePresidentknowshe cannotwin.

This is not the first time that the PPPC has used the Minister as a front to float a decision or a change in direction that theywishtopursue

On both occasions, when the proposed direction was put down by the public those in the background changed their tune leaving the Minister outtodry

The first instance of this was with the Exxon audit bill which was negotiated down from hundreds of Millions in USD of erroneous charges to less than a handful of dollars. To date the PPPC has not held the Minister

n o r h i s c o h o r t s accountable, nor have they investigated whether there was a breach in the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) Nowwithmorehandsinthe pot, they are now trying to sellthepubliconeliminating the cash grant on the basis thatitisafailedmodel.

After an effective rebuttal of their proposal, the Vice President and President are now being dismissive of the Minister’s suggestion One which he could not have come up with in isolation

The similarity with the unauthorised reduction of the audit correction, which also could not have been done in isolation, is astounding

Nooneisbeingfooledby the farce which is being portrayedinpublic.

The Minister speaks for the PPPC and when their plans to change course are seen as detrimental to the public purse, they revert to presenting their old position and dismissing the Minister a s u n i n f o r m e d o r misunderstood

. Pointing out the

obvious mistakes and grave consequences of the Minister’s position is in no way an expression of hostility towards Comrade Cheddi’s&ComradeJanet’s party Maybe Mr Jagdeo sees it only from the Jagdeo PPPC’sperspective. CRG will always be a supporter of the working class Maybe it is time for Jagdeo’s PPPC to rejoin the ranks of those upon whose shoulders the party wasfoundedandbuilt Decisions that betray t h e t r u s t o f t h e hardworkingpeopleofour nation and that prevent them from receiving the direct benefits of their motherland’s resources should be pointed out and thoroughly dismissed by a l l h a r d w o r k i n g Guyanese! There have been quite a few of these ill-conceived decisions and proposed changes in recent years and Minister Bharrat with the help of his supporters and mentorswithinthepartyis very attached to two such prominentmissteps.

Asincerefriendtoour workers, Mr.JamilChanglee

Guyanese Economic Mobility...

Frompage05

nearby workers, and tailor offerings to neighbourhood needs. This localised focus helps retain wealth within communities, support local supply chains, and stimulate regional development In rural or underservedareas,SMBscanbetheprimary drivers of economic activity and social cohesion.

Consistent with President Ali’s call for economic diversification, a vibrant SMB sector broadens Guyana’s industrial mix, reducing vulnerability to shocks that affect specific sectors or large corporations. In

times of crisis, SMBs often adapt quickly, cushioning downturns and aiding recovery Theirpresenceacrossindustriesandregions providesastabilisingeffectontheeconomy Guyana stands at the threshold of an importanteconomicera.

By galvanising the spirit and entrepreneurial energy of Guyanese, SMBs offer a path toward inclusive economic growthandliberation.Letusmoveswiftlyto implement the SMB program and turn this visionintoreality

Respectfully, Dr.TilokieArnoldDepoo,Economist

China hails new Demerara River

Bridge as a bridge of friendship

China's Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang on Sunday hailed the new Demerara River Bridge as morethanastructureofsteel and stone, but also a bridge of friendship between the twocountries.

Commissioned by President, Irfaan Ali, the bridge was built by China Railway Construction Corporation International Limited at a cost of U S $ 2 6 0 M T h e superstructure which will replace the old Demerara Harbour Bridge, is built to support the uninterrupted flow of vehicular and vessel t

c, wh

c

ll significantly reduce travel time, improve connectivity between Regions Three and Four and strengthen the movement of goods and servicesacrossthecountry

Speaking a

he commissioning Yang Yang

c o n g r a t u l a t e d t h e Government of Guyana for what she described as the unwavering commitment to

a

development and improving the well-being of Guyanese

people, which she said has

achievements. She also expressed sincere appreciation to the Chinese companies and all stakeholders that, through p

difficulties, and worked tirelessly to ensure the successful and high-quality completion of the project. The Chinese ambassador said the New Demerara River Bridge stands as the largest and most technically sophisticated transport infrastructure project in Guyanatodate,andproudly marks the Caribbean's first moderncable-stayedbridge.

“

Railway Construction Corporation International Limited, completed after 900daysandnightsofeffort, with more than 7 million hours of work, and the dedication of more than 1,300personnel.Itstandsas a testament to the speed, technology, and high

standards of Chinese construction. The design of the bridge also thoughtfully incorporates elements of Guyana's local culture and demonstrates the strong commitment to protecting the natural environment,” theambassadorremarked.

She said with its completion, the landmark structure will stand as a symbol for the entire Caribbean “It will significantly reduce travel time across the river, improve the daily lives of citizens, facilitate logistics and transportation, and providefreshmomentumfor r

development.”

Theambassadorsaiditis gratifying to note that Chinese companies have approached this project not only as builders, but also as responsible partners to the G

technicians have been trained,numerousGuyanese suppliers have joined as partners, creating thousands of jobs and opportunities. The project has also hosted

regular open days, welcoming thousands of officials, teachers, and students to learn, to exchange ideas, and to be inspired And just as importantly,theprojectteam has given back to the neighbourhoods around them, helping to repair roads, clean streets, and support community development.” Yang Yang saidundoubtedly,theproject is not only a bridge of steel and stone, but also a bridge offriendshipbetweenChina andGuyana—amilestonein the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation the two countries are building together “The successful commissioning of the New D e m e r a r a R i v e r Bridge—built to the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency—is not an end, but a new beginning. China stands ready to work with Guyana to deepen practical cooperation across all fields, to support the country's modernisation drive, and to help improve the well-being of the Guyanesepeople.Withinthe

framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, our shared goalistorealisethepeople's aspirations for common development and a better life.Thisistheresponsibility embraced by Chinese enterprises,anditisalsothe calling of China as a

responsible major country Let us, therefore, celebrate the friendship between ChinaandGuyana,andonce again extend our warm congratulations on the commissioning of the New DemeraraRiverBridge,”the ChineseAmbassadorsaid.

World Trade Centre Georgetown to launch with packed week of activities

Theofficiallaunchofthe World Trade Centre Georgetown (WTCG) will be marked by a full week of business and networking events from October 19 to 24, 2025, intensifying Guyana’sworkaspartofthe global World Trade Centers

Association (WTCA)

network Executive

ChairmanofWTCG,Komal Samaroo, said the planned activities were designed to ensuretheprivatesectorisat the heart of the celebrations.

“Our mission is about elevating the business environment in Guyana, creating opportunities for meaningful connections, knowledge- sharing, and growth. The World Trade Centre Georgetown will serve as a bridge between local enterprises and the globalmarket.”

According to a press release by WTCG, the programme begins on Sunday,October19,withthe arrival of international delegations On Monday, October 20, a welcome receptionwillbringtogether visiting officials, ministers, and local business leaders.

Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, will deliver the welcomeremarks.

Thehighlightoftheweek will be on Tuesday, October 21, with the official launch ceremony at WTCG’s Kingston headquarters which was commissioned in

ExecutiveChairman ofWTCG, Komal Samaroo

June this year Guyana’s President,Dr IrfaanAli,has been invited to deliver the keynote address. Remarks will also come from WTCA Vice Chairman, Remy Swaab and Managing DirectorWorldTradeCentre Bengaluru, India Vineet Verma.Thiswillbefollowed by a formal launch dinner will feature presentations by international trade specialists, government ministers, and global advisors on Guyana’s growingroleininternational commerce.OlindaSalguero, Vice President of the Latin AmericanandCaribbean Presidential Mission is thefeaturedspeaker October 22 starts with a presentation from Dr Peter Ramsaroop, Chief Executive Officer Guyana Office for Investment, focusing on Doing Business in and with Guyana.This is followed by apanel on the Effective Use of Artificial Intelligence & Digital Platforms by MSME’s featuring Luis (Continuedonpage58)

China's Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang

The missing logic in Jagdeo’s explanation of the foreign exchange mystery

It must be a most curiousthing,tohear a man who once governedacountryandwho now serves as its economic oracle, speak of the foreign exchangemarketasifitwere a leaking tap. A tap that is easily tightened by decree, andisdrippingonlybecause of a few mischievous hands atthespout!

Bharrat Jagdeo, when asked earlier this year about the mounting claims of a foreign exchange shortage, dismissed much of it as illusion.

There was, he said, enough foreign currency at the Central Bank to meet demand. If there were a scarcity, it was because the banks weren’t buying and sellingenoughtoeachother This was a curious diagnosis, part economics andparttelepathy

But the more Jagdeo spoke, the less the public understood For he soon added another explanation, one so novel it could only have been born of political necessity He hinted at the possibility that local

Biker

companies might be buying foreign exchange not to import goods into Guyana, but to send those goods into Trinidad, where the U.S. dollar is scarce. The logic was simple: our neighbours were short of foreign currency, our traders were clever, and our banks were beingduped.

Totheuntrainedear,this may sound plausible. But to anyone with a passing familiarity with how marketswork,itsoundslike something else — a story told to distract the public from the harder questions: Why is the U.S. dollar now tradingatG$220–230when, notlongago,itwasG$210? Why, despite assurances of “adequate reserves,” must businesses queue for days, even weeks, to obtain the currencytheyneedtoimport goods?

The suggestion that “unscrupulous” traders are selling U S dollars to Trinidadians raises more questions than it resolves. More troubling still is his separate claim that many Chinese businesses in

Guyana do not have bank accounts. How, one must ask, would he know such a

ng? That k

nd of information is protected by law IftheVicePresidentcan publicly assert it, either he has been briefed on matters that should never reach his desk, or he is speculating recklessly Neither possibility sits well in a democracy that claims to r

l confidentiality

But suppose for a moment that his suspicion about inflated invoices and Chinese traders is true. What, then, explains the consistent slide of the Guyana dollar against the U.S.dollar?

For years, the rate hoveredbetweenG$208and G$215. Now, with the oil boom in full flow and foreign reserves at their highest level in decades, the market is quoting G$230. This is not the behavior of a currency underpinned by confidence.

The government’s latest response, is a nine-point plan, requiring importers to

killedinSouth Dakotaracetrackaccident

A58-year-oldmandiedonSaturdayafter hewasinvolvedinanaccidentontheSouth Dakota Circuit race track, Timehri, East BankDemerara.

According to a release from the police, Andre Rochford, a 49-year-old resident of Herstelling, East Bank Demerara, was ‘testing’ his Honda racing car around the track on Saturday, when motorcyclist, Richard La Cuise, of Timehri South, East Bank Demerara reportedly began swerving inandoutofthepathofthecarresultingina collision.

Police said La Cruise fell from the motorcycleandreceivedinjuriestohisbody

Hewaspickedupinaconsciousconditionby the driver and taken to the Guyana Defence Force’s Medical Centre, where he was examined by a medic on duty He was later transferred to the New Diamond Regional Hospital, where he succumbed while receivingtreatment.

His body was escorted to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, where it awaits a post-mortemexamination.

Thedriverofthemotorcarwasarrested, andabreathalysertestconducted.Policesaid notraceofalcoholwasfound.Heiscurrently attheMadewiniPoliceoutpostassistingwith theinvestigation.

Shots fired in Toroparo mining feud

…police, GGMC rush in to quell storm

TheGuyanaPolice Force and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) are investigating twoincidentsarisingfroma land mining dispute in the Toroparo area, Region 7, which occurred on

September 23 and September30,2025.

According to a police release, the incident on September 23rd, which was captured on video, features the voice of Mitchell Watson.Policesaidtheissue

involved personnel affiliated with miner

Ronaldo Alphonso and a group including rangers, Marvis Hillman and Edson Carter

“This encounter is reportedtohaveescalatedto the alleged discharge of firearms by Alphonso’s security team,” the police related.

It said another incident thefollowingweek,sawthe continuation of the unresolved tensions between parties. In another video, security agent Leon Wilkinson appeared as the primary speaker, along with ranger, Edson Carter, and

“account” for the foreign currencytheyreceivebefore theycanapplyformore.This isanotherchapterinourlong history of trying to control theuncontrollable.Intheory, itwillensurethatbusinesses only apply for foreign currency when they have real imports to back their claims. In practice, it will create delays, encourage corruption, and revive the undergroundmarket.

When official channels become clogged with red tape,thedollarfindsitsway throughthecracks.Italways has.

Mr. Jagdeo, who should remember the lessons of the 1980s, appears to have forgotten them

Restrictionnevercures shortage; it merely drives itoutofsight

The foreign exchange market, like water, obeys gravity It flows to where it is valued most and restrictedleast

And when government attempts to dam that flow, it does not stop; it simply movesunderground

What is more, the attempt to lay blame at the feet of Chinese traders or

Trinidadian importers is not just illogical but u n b e c o m i n g T h e C h i n e s e - o w n e d supermarkets, for all their ubiquity, do not import most of their goods directly

They purchase from local wholesalers who already have access to foreignexchange

N o r c a n h i g h government spending be the villain While it has increased, as all budgets do inelectioncycles,ithasnot quadrupled. Yet foreign currency interventions by the Bank of Guyana have. Thereisamismatchhere— not between demand and supply, but between narrativeandreality

What the country needs is not more conjecture but clarity

It needs a proper, independent study of the foreign exchange market

Whataretherealsourcesof demand?

How much currency is beingheldinprivatehands?

How much is flowing through unofficial channels?

These are the questions thatmustbeasked,butthey

will not be answered by soundbitesorsuspicions. If the President’s new measures succeed, they may indeed confirm the theory of Trinidadian leakage

But if they fail, as experience suggests they will, then we will be left where we began with a dollar that trades by rumor, and a government that confuses motion with progress

Jagdeo’s reasoning is, quite honestly, confusing. It has neither grace nor logic. The U.S. dollar is rising not because of the Chinese, nor because of Trinidad, but becausethepublicnolonger believes the government’s versionofarithmetic. And when confidence falls,eventhemosteloquent explanations cannot make a weakdollarstrongagain.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)

security Randy Allen speaking with Juleth George,thegeneralmanager of Alphonso Mining, and operator,WilliamHill.

The police force said ranksfromregion7arrested all persons involved and seizedallfirearms.

“To mitigate further conflict and ensure order, a joint operational team consisting of police led by an inspector and police ranks, and officers from the GuyanaGeologyandMines Commission is on the location monitoring the situation,”thereleasestated.

H@RD TRUTHS

TIME: One hundred rising stars

Congratulations are in order for His Excellency, President Dr Mohamed IrfaanAli. TIMEhasnamed him among its 100 rising global stars An extraordinary development. Respectandhomagearedue to this President from Guyana'ssoil,thisbrotherat the bosom. This star now internationally recognised Mayhisstarbeoneofthose brightonesthatdomorethan rise. It stays elevated,

embodygenuinebrightness. As I give thanks for Excellency Ali, there's bowing before the sacred altar of the nectar of Guyana's seas. Oil! Oil, that precious commodity thattheworldworships,and which has so much power dripping from each drop. Theoilmaybeblack,butits blackness blinds in its brilliance. Indeed, black gold is beautiful. Some are lifted, carried to the

summits; others just drift along in its boiling wake. Oilmaybeviscous. Ah,but it also yields the luminous. Oil works like a catapult for those close to its charms, through a convergence of moment, place, and opportunity ExcellencyAli has all those in his favor, on autopilot,littletobedoneby him. Leave oil alone, and everything will be alright. So,alongcameTIMEwitha corona for Mohamed Irfaan

Ali'sgrandhead. Suchisthe stuffoflegendsanddreams, and Guyanese live those in profusion amid rich gushers from the depths. A rising staramongotherrisingstars, and why not?What yellow metal couldn't do, liquid black gold gallops along with free head, fleet feet. There is a constant in these seasons of marine prosperity Of peculiar human sagacity isolated for specialmention. Ofunusual

accolades from thosewhomanthe watchtowers to determine who is fair, who wouldn't presentanyproblems. All is well. When there is alliance and allegiance to multinationals, then many are the magnificent rewards that flow from the pillars of civilisation, the keepers of its impeccable standards. For the edification of my fellow toilers and members of this wondrous Guyanese erainthesun,Guyanahashit the headlines again. For in this 21st century, Prince Mohamed Irfaan Ali is the latest in a long line of maharajahs who committed himselfheart,body,andsoul for the good of oil. He has done right by the multinationals, and anyone doingsocandonowrong. A prince among princely fellows, is Guyana's own favoriteson,ExcellencyAli. From this day on, the globallyhaloedherosoarsto theheights. ToDr Alibethe heraldry To Guyanese, be the p…ah, why cry at a birthday splash, disrupt a wedding house gala?

Unbecoming, it would be. Untimely and unrighteous, too.Guyana's rising star, a budding superstar in the making,(Iwouldargue,one already that has surpassed that Holy Grail of human achievements), Mohamed IrfaanAli,givenasmallhour or two more, is set to join a galaxy of global immortals. Forwhatisamanhailedand etched across the consciousnessofaswooning globe, if not a champion, a Spartan,amanandgladiator for tough and testing seasons. What is such a leader,player,contributor,if notbutashortsteppingstone from the company of those who are not just the illumination of ordinary, mortal endeavor? But of men and women who embodied the illustrious in extraordinary perspicacity andwhohavelefttheirmark ontheaffairsofmen,andthe times in which they trod.

Sometimes for the better; other times for the memorableworse. ATIMErisingstar,some of the hundred, or all of t h e m , c o u l d w i t h maintenance of what is considered acceptablehewing to the right lines, playing the games rightcould take their place in the company of that rare breed. A Time Man or Woman or Person of theYear I would like that for Pres. Ali. In fact, I endorse from now s u c h a p e e r l e s s development. The TIME pantheon is rich with the vitality of heroes of yore gone by Just a few should suffice to inform Guyanese ofthespecialplacethatthey occupy today, and the one that their national leader holds in the hearts of those whomaketheworldspinon its axis. ATIME Person of the Year has included such incomparable historical deitiesasWinstonChurchill (a man of wars and words); John F Kennedy (a man of frontiers, endless possibilities);MotherTeresa (compassion and care personified) Other distinguished TIME personalities of the year wereJosephStalinandAdolf Hitler (magicians of matchlessmastery);Richard Nixon (Tricky Dick); and Vladimir Putin (Mother Russia forever). Guyana's MohamedIrfaanAlibelongs in TIME's constellation, I can see the inscription: IrfaanAli-amanofsanctity, a delightful human commodity, a leader good for the company.This is an unsolicited, unpaid, ode to Pres. Ali: brother, leader, one-of-a-kindoilpartner (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)

BLUNT BLUNT

Reckless driving, Still out of control

Despite the installation of speed clocks and increased police patrols, reckless driving remains a daily menace, claiming lives and shattering families. The flashing numbers on the speed monitors seem to do little more than decorate our highways, as drivers hurtle past them with impunity.

It is clear that technology alone cannot fix a culture of lawlessness. Too many motorists treat the road as a racetrack, emboldened by weak enforcement, bribery, and lenient penalties. The loss of life from speeding and drunk driving has become so routine that outrage fades before the next tragedy.

The time for talk has long passed. Government must enforce stricter penalties including licence suspensions, vehicle impoundment, and mandatory re-education for repeat offenders. Police must deploy more mobile radar units and random breath tests, especially on weekends. Dashcams and community reporting hotlines should be introduced to deter reckless behaviour.

Most of all, public education must target drivers before they reach the road from driving schools to schoolyards. Until discipline, not recklessness, defines our roads, no amount of speed clocks will save us from ourselves.

New US$262M bridge commissioned

Thousands of Guyanese gatheredonSundayeveningforthe commissioning of the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge, which replaces the old floating Demerara Harbour Bridge. The new structure connects Regions Three and Four, easing the daily commute for thousands of Guyanese.

The US$262 million contract was awarded to China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) and its partners, China Railway Caribbean Company Limited and China Railway Engineering Bureau Group Company Limited. Construction began on December 22,2022,withover1,300workers.

Inhisfeatureaddress,President Irfaan Ali underscored that the financing of the bridge was the resultofdeliberatereinvestmentof Guyana'snaturalresources.

“Oilrevenueswiselymanaged, are being converted into structures like this, projects that deliver benefits to every Guyanese. This bridge is proof that our resources are not squandered They are reinvestedintothefuture,thelong, long future of the people of our country, and so my brothers and sisters,thisbridgeisyourgift.Itisa giftofagovernmentthatbelievesin thepeople…”PresidentAlistated.

He said the bridge will forever change the rhythm of the country, shorteningdistances,strengthening commerce,andimprovingtheflow ofgoodsandservicesfromcoastto coast.Thepresidentaddedthatthe infrastructurestandsasasymbolof Guyana'sjourneytowardamodern era.

Ali reflected on the Demerara Harbour Bridge, which served the nation faithfully for decades. He said, “It carried dreams, burdens and the daily journeys of thousands, but its time had long expired.Itssteelplatesgrewweary The bridge became a bottleneck, a source of frustration for commuters, business and families. Delays, breakdowns, traffic snarls and endless openings took their toll. A new Guyana needed a new bridge, not another floating bridge.”He emphasised that what wasneededwasamodernstructure that expands capacity, reduces congestion, lowers costs and fuels efficiency PresidentAliaddedthat thebridge'sbenefitsincludeeasing commuters' frustrations “Every commuter will feel it Every businesswillbenefitfromit.Every investor will take note of it. The congestion that crippled productivity will ease. The hidden taxesofwastedfuel,losthoursand frustrated tempers will go slowly away,”hesaid.

Alistressedthatthebridgewill improve supply chain efficiency and enhance competitiveness. He further described the structure as a “launchpadforgrowth.

MinisterofPublicWorks,Juan

Edghill, whose ministry spearheaded the project, described the bridge as “an engineering masterpiece ” He said the

commissioning represents not just anotherinfrastructureopening,but a defining moment in Guyana's modernhistory

“Engineers, craftsmen and administrators join hands to give shape to this national dream,” Minister Edghill stated He commended the Chinese consortiumfordeliveringaproject that commands admiration across theworld.

The minister added, “Their engineering mastery and craftsmanship have produced a structurethatisnotonlyfunctional and durable, but a testament to beauty,precisionandpartnership.”

The minister outlined that the bridgeisamodern,four-lane,highspan cable-stayed structure, designed to accommodate both

vehicular and pedestrian traffic, meeting the highest standards of safetyandefficiency

He explained that the 50-meter fixedhigh-spaneliminatestheneed for bridge openings for oceangoing vessels, ensuring uninterrupted maritime traffic “Facilitating continuous vehicle flow and ensuring navigational clearance for vessels up to the handymax class, a transformation from the limitations of the old DemeraraRiverBridge,”hesaid.

Stretching 2,798 meters, the bridge features a 570-meter cablestayedmainspanandisengineered foracenturyofservice.“Itfeatures fourvehiclelanes,eachwitha1.5metershouldersandatotalwidthof 25 meters, complemented by 2.7 wide cycle and walk railings, allowing for safe, multi-use passage across the Demerara River,”theministersaid.

Beneath the surface lies a foundationof658pilesdrivendeep intotheriverbed.Themaintowers, each anchored by 76 piles measuring nearly eight feet in diameter, were driven 400 feet deep.Thebridgedeckissuspended by 136 high-tension cables, while theapproachsectionsrequired472 precastconcretegirders.

“Every stage of construction adhered to international best practices. Design was executed in compliance with specifications.

accordance with the ASTM standard, and all procedures were monitored on the ISO certified benchmarks,” Minister Edghill

emphasized. Healsocommendedtheproject management supervisory team led by Patrick Thompson of the Ministry of Public Works' Central

Thompson and several others received certificates for their roles inexecutingtheproject.

Meanwhile, Dongsheng Li, ManagingDirectorofCRCC,inhis addresssaid,“Thisbridgewasbuilt bymanyhandsandmanyhearts.It shows teamwork, dedication, and friendship, and work that has a huge positive impact on the daily livesofcommunities,families,and students.”

Also speaking at the event was

Development at Politecnica, the consultant for the project, noted, “As engineers, we are proud to have supervised such a marvel of modern engineering, and we do recognise that this bridge is more thanthat.Itisacorridorofprogress and opportunity A landmark of national pride and a sign of confidence for generations to come.”

Scenes from the commissioning of the US$262 million Bharrat Jagdeo River Bridge

President Irfaan Ali

The ribbon cutting of the US$262 million Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill

New bridge named after Bharrat Jagdeo

The 2 65-kilometer bridge across the Demerara River has been named in honor of Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, who has been described as a giant in Guyana's political landscape.

The announcement was madebyPresidentIrfaanAli on Sunday night during the commissioning of the US$262millionbridge,built by China Railway Construction Corporation

upliftment.“Aman who has beenanadviser,anarchitect and an anchor in our developmenttoday,Iwantto pay tribute to a giant of our localpoliticsandeconomy,” Alisaid.

“October 5th is no ordinary date

e Guyanese calendar It is a day burned into a collective memory It is a day that 33 years ago, witnessed the breaking of chains and the opening of doors On

(CRCC) with a lifespan of a century

P r e s i d e n t A l i underscored the importance of October 5th in Guyana's history and the crucial role Jagdeo played 33 years ago in pulling the country out of economicturmoil.

President Ali recognised the former president and currentvicepresidentforhis dedication to Guyana's

October 5, the People's Progressive Party Civic and the Guyanes

shattered the shackles of authoritarian rule and gave Guyana the chance to breatheagain,”PresidentAli added.He outlined that the date serves as a reminder of thedawnofanewera,when the nation was rescued from economic collapse and politicaldarkness.

The president noted that October 5th holds special significance for Jagdeo, recalling that he stood shouldertoshoulderwithDr CheddiJagantopullGuyana o u t o f “ e c o n o m i c wilderness.”

Ali reminded that at the time, Guyana's economy was bankrupt, roads were in ta

ters, utilities had collapsed, businesses were crippled,anddebtconsumed more revenue than the country earned, making it a highlyindebtedpoornation.

“A lesser soul would have walked away, but not BharratJagdeo,hestoodand worked to resuscitate our economy, to lift Guyana, a few years earlier, he had returned from studies with a mind sharpened like steel andaworkethicthatsethim apart,”thepresidentnoted.

US-basedGuyaneseshot,relieved ofgoldchainatAmeila'sWard

Alicontinued,“DrJagan recognisedhimaformidable asset, and he was elevated swiftly to Minister of Finance. Then he worked tirelessly rebuilding the country's revenues, introducing the most generous incentives regime toboostoureconomy

He did all of this by slashing import tariffs and fighting on international front for debt relief. Under his watch, Guyana moved from being shackled by death to standing with dignitywhenheassumedthe

presidency in 1999 it was in the midst of violence and uncertainty.”

PresidentAli praised the vice president for standing up to bullies and shielding democracy He said Jagdeo is more than just a national figure in Guyana's political arena,asheisalsoaregional leader and a global thinker Ali reminded that Jagdeo chaired CARICOM Agriculture Initiative and pioneered the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), a model that today earnsGuyanacarboncredits

andglobalrespect.Henoted that Jagdeo was also recognised by the United Nations as a “Champion of theEarth.”

“It is my honor, my privilege…on behalf of a grateful people, I'm pleased todedicatethisbridgeinthe name of from this day forward,itshallbecalledthe Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge, because great men deserve recognition, because visionaries deserve legacies, because Guyana never forgets its giants,” PresidentAlisaid.

Biker bandits rob Chinese National on Saffon Street

Two bandits on Lindy Scooters robbed a Chinese National moments after he stepped out of a minivan along Saffon Street, GeorgetownonSaturday

The robbery took place in the morning hours and it is believed that the bandits may have been trailing the minivan. CCTV camera mounted on a nearby building capturedtherobbery

Footageshowedthatthebanditspulledup on the scooter just moments before the vehicle pulled up and parked in front of the Bacchus Drug Store. When the minivan arrived,theycircledthevehicleandpulledup alongsidethefrontpassengerdoor Whenthe unsuspecting Chinese National opened and steppedout,thepillionridercameofthebike and greeted the Chinese National with a fist bump.

Just as the Chinese national was almost acrossroadhe“brackled”him.Whilehewas robbing the victim, his accomplice rushed towards the passenger side of the minivan where he grabbed something from the seat. The driver of the vehicle tried to reverse but bytimehecould,theaccomplicehadalready grabbed some items from the passenger seat andranbacktohisbike.

Theotherbanditalsoranbehindhimafter grabbing two cellphones from the Chinese National'scrotch.

KaieteurNewswastoldthattheyescaped withcashandcellphones.

TheChineseNationalreportedlywentto SaffonStreettomakeapayment.

CheckLinktoseefootageofrobbery https://www.facebook.com/reel/1742122 139825197

Section of the Bharrat Jagdeo River Bridge

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

An overseas based Guyanese was on Sunday shot and relieved of his gold chain in the comfort of his own home at Ameila's Ward Linden,RegionTen.

Thevictimwasidentified asGordonJames,alsoknown as James Bond. Details are sketchy at this time, but the robber was captured on

CCTV Cameras Footage from the cameras showed a lonegunmandressedinblack firing shots into the bottom flatofastory Thevictimwas heard screaming in pain as thebanditdemanded“tekoff thechain,givemeduhchain. After grabbing the victim's chain, he ran out of theyard.

The gunman shooting at James

Israel kills 24 Palestinians on eve of Gaza plan talks in Egypt

( A L - J A Z E E R A )

Negotiators have converged on Egypt ahead of talks aimed at ending Israel's nearly two-year war on the Gaza Strip, on Sunday, however, Israeli attacks on Gaza continued unabated, with at least 24 Palestinians reported killed. One person has also died of forced starvation, the Health Ministry in the besieged territory says The Palestinian group Hamas said its delegation, headed by Khalil al-Hayya, will begin negotiations “on the mechanisms for a ceasefire, the withdrawal of [Israeli] occupation forces and a prisonerexchange.”

The Israeli delegation will be headed by Ron Dermer, Israel's minister of strategicaffairs,accordingto a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu'soffice.Thetalks will be held in Sharm elSheikh, Egypt,Israeli forces meanwhile attacked

different areas across the Gaza Strip, especially in GazaCity,wheretheattacks were concentrated on the easternparts.

T h e a l - B u r e i j neighbourhood and other areasunderattackarehighly dangerous areas at the moment, with many Palestinians forced to move to the western parts of Gaza City.Sources from al-Ahli HospitaltoldAl-Jazeerathat the number of casualties are overwhelming and the doctors are facing many challenges in treating the wounded,especiallywiththe lack of medicine and medicalsupplies.

On Sunday, explosions couldstillbeheardfromtime to time, and the situation remained extremely harsh for people in the northern parts of Gaza.Residents said they were still hearing explosions in the eastern areas, most of which remained completely inaccessible and extremely

Palestinians mourn at the funeral at Nasser Hospital on October 5, 2025

[Ramadan Abed/Reuters]

dangerous Israeli forces were reportedly using quadcopters to fire on Palestinians,includingsome who tried to return to the north from the south and central areas Many were waiting anxiously for the ceasefire deal to take effect so they could go home. But people reported that some who tried to make that journey on Sturday were

Juretha Fernandes ready to take on PPP, represent Guyanese in Parliament -saysunbotheredbyseatnumbers

Formerprimeministerial

candidate for the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Juretha Fernandes, believes the coalition has been duly elected to the national assembly, and therefore its work in the legislative body continues.

The PNC-led coalition saw its parliamentary seats significantly reduced to a

meagre 12 from its previouslyheld31inthelast parliament. This year, the People's Progressive Party/Civic obtained some 36 seats, and newcomer, the We Invest in Nationhood

captured 16, at the September 1, general and regionalelections.

The sharp blow at the elections pried the opposition's post from the hands of the APNU, giving thenewpositiontoWIN,led by businessman, Azruddin Mohamed.

Appearing on the PNC's 'Nation Watch' programme on Sunday, Fernandes, who ranalongsidePNC'sAubrey Norton, posited that the APNU has still been afforded a platform- the highest-bywhichtoholdthe governmentaccountableand represent the interests of Guyanese; a task she

affirmed will be diligently undertaken by the incoming membersofparliament.

"Our role is to keep the government accountable Ourroleistoadvancecertain causes for the population.... it's not about the number of persons you have, but it is about the quality of the people that you are sending tothenationalassembly."

Fernandes, who representedtheAPNU+AFC in the 12th Parliament, said she is not optimistic that the ruling PPP/C, with its majority, would be inclined to any proposals by the APNU during the 13th Parliament.

The two political sides havebeenradicallyopposed historically The governing PPP/C and the then main opposition APNU have mostly only held unified views on matters pertaining to the border controversy withGuyanaandVenezuela.

Outside of this, the government has flexed its majorityswayinthenational assembly to push its agenda successfully.”Based on my previous five years' operatinginparliamentwith the PPP administration, there is no hope that they're going to be willing to adopt anypositivepolicythatisput

there, but we have to go out thereanddoitnevertheless," thepoliticianstated.

She assured Guyanese that though the next five years will be difficult, "you willnotbefightingalone."

Dr Terrence Campbell, Dr. David Hinds, Riaz Rupnarain,Dr DexterTodd, Coretta McDonald, Ganesh Mahipaul, Nima Flue-Bess, Vinceroy Jordan, Sharma Solomon, Sherod Duncan, and Saiku Andrews will all join Fernandes in APNU's quarters in the soon to be convened13thParliament.

Fernandes said the APNU will not only represent citizens in the national assembly, but will also work to reclaim lost grounds at the local level when Guyanese participate in the next Local Government Elections (LGE).

shot and killed by Israeli forces Hospitals are still overwhelmed with the number of wounded, and many Palestinians are dying from their injuries, AlJazeera was told. Despite this, there's still a sense of cautious hope. People are holding onto the belief that the ceasefire deal will go through.

Israel'sArmychief,Eyal Zamir said he visited Israeli ground troops positioned insidethewesternmostpoint of the Netzarim Corridor, which was built to bisect

Gaza.“There is no ceasefire, but there is a change in the operational situation – the political echelon is taking the tools and achievements youhavebroughtinmilitary action and translating them i n t o a p o l i t i c a l achievement,” the Israeli army chief told top commanders, according to the military.“If the political effort is unsuccessful, we w i l l r e t u r n t o fighting.”Zamir said Israel continues to remain on the offensive, “destroying the enemy in its formation, in every arena” while “changingrealitythroughout the Middle East”.Mahmoud Mardawi said Israel's “unprecedented” settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank is part of “a systematicpolicy”ofseizing more Palestinian land, leading to Israel's “dream of a n n e x a t i o n a n d displacement” In a statement released on Hamas's Telegram account, the official said the expansion coincides with an “unprecedented” military escalation in theWest Bank, including raids, arrests,

home demolitions, property confiscation and the impositionofastiflingsiege onresidentialareas.

Mardawi said, “These crimes represent a fullyfledged apartheid policy aimed at emptying the land ofitsIndigenouspeopleina flagrant violation of all international laws and agreements.”

Gaza's Health Ministry released its latest daily update on the number of casualties in Israel's nearly two-yearwar

Inastatement,itsaidthe bodies of 65 people, including two who were recently recovered, had arrived in hospitals across the besieged territory over the latest 24-hour reporting period. Another 153 people were wounded.The figures bring the number of people killedinIsraeliattackssince thestartofthewartoatleast 67,139, with 169,583 others wounded,

Many victims are still under the rubble and in the streets, where ambulance and civil defence crews are unable to reach them, the ministrysaid.

New housing CEO urges timely delivery of projects

NewlyappointedChiefExecutiveOfficer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Dr. Martin Pertab on Saturday visited several housing projects along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, including Hauraruni and the Yarrowkabra HomesteadProject.

Accompanied by CH&PAengineers and asurveyor,Dr Pertabmetwithcontractorson sitetoassessongoingworks,theDepartment ofPublicInformationsaidinapressrelease.

He explained that the purpose of these visitsistomaintainopencommunicationand identify potential challenges early, before they become too difficult to manage.This is especially important given the government's ambitious 2025-2030 mandate to expand homeownership Smaller and newer contractors, he noted, have a number of challenges and he underscored the need for capacity strengthening, while larger contractors are expected to uphold performance standards. He also signaled plans to engage directly with delinquent contractors, stressing that any delay in infrastructure works has a domino effect on utility installation and, ultimately, on the

ability of beneficiaries to achieve homeownership.“In a housing scheme, the end objective is to ensure occupancy,” the CEO said. He continued, “They (beneficiaries) wouldn't occupy if there's no road, no water or electricity”.The Hauraruni Project will feature over 400 Young Professional homes, with land preparation nearlycompleteandworksoninternalroads and drainage ongoing. Meanwhile, at the Yarrowkabra Homestead Project 200 prefabricatedhomesarebeingconstructedin thefirstphase.Some500homesareexpected to be built under this $6 billion housing initiative,which is the brainchild of H.E. Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali. The project integrates housing with agricultural production and renewable energy, including shade houses and solar systems, to promote economic empowerment, particularly for single mothers and women-led households Through these proactive site engagements, Dr PertabreaffirmedCH&PA'scommitment to ensuring that every housing project stays onschedule,sothatmoreGuyanesefamilies cansoonturntheirdreamofhomeownership intoreality

CEO of the Central Housing and Planning Authority, Dr. Martin Pertab and contractors reviewing a plan for some of the works works

Juretha Fernandes

Rising demand for foreign currency only temporary - Jagdeo

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo said the shortage of foreign currency in the country is a temporary situation and predicts that the demand will drop once the majorgovernmentprojectsare completed.

At his Thursday press conference,hetoldjournalists that the investments the governmenthasmadewillnot go on forever, since they are notrecurrentinnature.Hesaid there will be a significant reductionindemandformajor capital projects, and while there will be new ones, they will not significantly affect foreigncurrency

“Now,letmemakeitclear We've always maintained throughout the campaign and fortheseveralyearsthatwe've been in government that our capacity to manage the financial sector, and capacity doesn'tmeanjustthetechnical capability, but the funds to injectinthemarketshouldwe needtodoso,isallavailableto us and there's no shortage of funding,”hesaid.

The VP reminded reporters that the government has already injected $1 2 billion into the market so far for this year, and has the capacitytoinjectmorefundsif theneedarises.

He said the government's capacitywillcontinuetogrow in the years ahead given the large amounts of revenue that will flow into treasury from the Natural Resources Fund (NRF) Looking at the projections for the said revenue, it will run into billions of dollars in foreign currency,Jagdeorelayed.

“Now it's very clear that thedemand(foreigncurrency) has grown because our countryisexpandingatarapid pace. We're in a major period where we're building out the infrastructure that would last us for decades into the future. Andalotofthisinfrastructure is financed from the local market through the local banking system and we are providingtheforeigncurrency for that investment,” Jagdeo

said.

Heexplainedthatalthough the government has a loan for thenewDemeraraBridge,itis financing over US $100 millionthroughthetreasury

“We have been financing most of the gas-to-energy projects so far Hundreds of millions of US dollars we've been finding from the local markettofinancethat.Alotof thelocalcompaniesinthepast wouldgoandtakealoanfrom abroad and then finance an investment In the current situation, many of them are taking local loans and they're buyingfactoriesorequipment, and therefore we have to find the foreign currency for that. So, we have seen a major growth in the demand for foreigncurrencyandthisisfor capitalinvestment,”headded.

The Ministry of Finance said back in April that the government injected a further US$100 into the banking system to address foreign currencyshortages.

According to the ministry, Jagdeo and Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh, along with Central Bank Governor Dr Gobind Ganga, met with the chief executive officers and other representatives of commercial banks to discuss recent developments in the banking system particularly theforeignexchangemarket.

At the meeting, note was taken of the continued availabilityofadequatelevels of foreign currency in the financialsystemasawholeto meetongoingdemand,despite occasionaltimingdifferences.

According to the ministry, in order to ensure pending requests for foreign currency are met in a timely manner, US$100 million was immediately injected into the market distributed across all commercialbanks.

“This injection will provideimmediaterelieftothe system in meeting pending demand for foreign currency, while the temporary timing mismatches unwind themselves,” the ministry stated.

Vice president Bharrat Jagdeo

WANTED VACANCY

Sales Rep needed, ages 1830 years. Knowledge of vehicle model will be an asset. Contact: 619-1237.

Job openings: Truck drivers, AC Technician, Excavator and Skid Steer Operator. To apply send applications via Whatsapp: 6891111 / 608-2114.

Drivers to drive Canter & Porters to work in Warehouses. Experience will be an asset. Call : 673-7373.

One male Gardener to work at New Haven, Belair. 7am4pm Mon-Fri & Sat if required $6600 per day. Call: 611-7839.

Supervisor for supermarket and Accounts clerk for Charity, Excavator Operators for Pomeroon. Contact: 688-0417/ 654-7162/ 6875814/ 223-5273.

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Wanted one sales person, age 20-30 years. Call: 6807402.

Wanted one Maid. Call: 680-1282.

Girl to work in Printery/ office age 20-25 years old, Campbellville, Georgetown. Tele: 621-5140.

Puri/ Roti Maker & Porters needed at Rabbies Snackette 266 Thomas & New Market St. Call: 648-8279 / 231-6591.

Handyboys & Ark Welders. Living accommodation and meals provided. Call: 6275043 / 639-1315.

SERVICES

VISA Application for USA, Canada, UK, ETA, ETC. Naturalisation guidance + application filling & Building Plans. Tel: 626-7040.

Vacancy for Hotel & Restaurant Manager and Accountant. Apply in person Lot 29 Sussex Street, Georgetown. Tele: 757-8231.

Experienced farmer/ Worker (Hauruni), Handyman for Peters Hall & Domestic Worker. Tele: 226-9492.

Receiptionist, Office assistant & Accounts clerk needed, Attractive Salary. Call: 617-5700 9am-4pm Monday- Friday

Domestic worker for the interior. Call: 700-1196.

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Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age 23-50, Car/ Van licence Call 615-9132.

Maid for East Bank area call 615-9132.

One (1) female cleaner for Eccles office call 645-8443

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CDB devising transformative strategy to optimise regional education system

Caribbean Develop ment Bank Presi dent Daniel M. Best delivering opening remarks at the 2025 Regional Symposium on Transforming Education, standing at a podium with microphones

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is designing a transformative education policy and strategy to unlock the potential of the Caribbean’s predominantly young population, with nearly 60% under age 30. Speaking at the opening of CDB’s 2025 Regional Transforming Education Symposium and Policy Dialogue in Barbados, CDB President, Mr. Daniel Best, revealed that the Bank’s comprehensive transformation strategy is being devised to address the entire education ecosystem.

“The global record is unequivocal, education accounted for half of global economic growth since 1980 and two-thirds of income gains among the world’s poorest people,” he explained. “Education is the most powerful driver of inclusive growth known to humanity, and the Caribbean must harness this force to transform our economic trajectory.”

Under the Bank’s “Rebirth” vision, Mr. Best explained, CDB is seeking to ensure that every Caribbean child can read, count, think critically, and navigate the digital world with confidence

by Grade 3, while simultaneously cultivating futureready skills for renewable energy, resilient construction, agro-tech, health tech, the creative economy, and the digital frontier, positioning Caribbean youth for emerging economic opportunities.

The CDB President also revealed that the transformation strategy will promote the integration of adaptive and AI-augmented learning technologies to personalise education and lift performance. The Bank will also emphasise building a Caribbean Digital Education Ecosystem that provides equitable access to devices, connectivity, and shared learning repositories. The enhanced approach also includes transforming universities into engines of discovery for blue and green economies, empowering teachers with comprehensive training in digital integration and ethics, and directly linking education to employment through micro-credentials and competency-based skills development.

CDB’s comprehensive approach comes as stark data reveals the urgency for educational reform across the region. Fewer than one in five Caribbean adults hold university degrees, and this year’s Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate results show only 44% of candidates passed five or more subjects, including Mathematics and

English, well below satisfactory levels. At the same time, some Caribbean countries are losing more than 70% of their university graduates to migration, representing a critical drain on regional human capital. The President stressed that weak educational outcomes currently constrain regional growth and deepen cycles of inequality, particularly as boys exit the education pipeline prematurely while girls’ academic achievements fail to translate into leadership opportunities and pay equity. The Bank’s approach, he explains, recognises that global poverty reduction over the past four decades, which saw extreme poverty decrease from 44% in 1981 to just 9% in 2022, was driven primarily by educational advancement.

“Our goal is to build ladders of opportunity across generations and create a sustainable legacy of prosperity for our people,” Best declared. “We envision a Caribbean where young innovators harness AI and robotics, where universities fuel breakthroughs in renewable energy and climate resilience, and where our brightest minds no longer feel compelled to leave the region to succeed.”

President Best also called on parents to actively engage as partners in educational transformation, noting that the region has always required collective effort for

success. “In our region, it has always taken a village to succeed. And it will take the whole Caribbean village, including parents, teachers, communities, policymakers, and the diaspora, to raise this generation into prosperity,” he said. “That is why parents must have a seat at the table of transformation. Through stronger ParentTeacher Associations, regional alliances, and community networks, we are embedding parents’ voices alongside policymakers in decisions that will shape Caribbean education for decades to come.” CDB’s 2025 Regional Transforming Education Symposium and Policy Dialogue, which is being held in collaboration with the Ministry of Educational Transformation, Barbados, will run from September 30 – October 2 at the Wyndham Grand Resort, Barbados. With the theme, “Stronger Together: Empowering Parents as Partners in Caribbean Education”, the event aims to strengthen the involvement of this critical group in the regional education system through capacity building, dialogue with policymakers, and the establishment of a sustainable regional ParentTeacher framework. Close to 200 participants are in attendance, including parents, educators, administrators, development partners, and Ministers of Education.

Subryanville and Farnum community ground...

From page 04 businesses, be it schools, hotels or other businesses, which involve the presence of a large number of persons in a small residential community, include the creation of vehicular chaos, inconsiderate parking, blocking of driveways, entrances and access roads, littering, noise nuisance, creation of one-way streets and extension of buildings which obstruct the line of sight, increasing foreseeable dangers of accidents of vehicles and pedestrians exiting onto the main road, as happened to the writer herein.

Questions for the authorities 1. What is the basis of Mr Sugrim’s power to continue to build the prefab structures and add a second storey despite being expressly told by the Mayor that no permission was given for the construction of prefab buildings?

2. Why is it that after a month’s notice, the regulatory bodies, M&CC, the City Engineer and the CHPA have failed to stop the construction of the prefab structures on Farnum’s community ground?

sions from so many ACs?

5.Did the owners of the private Schools and those concerned with welfare of children explore any alternative accommodation, including the advertised Mae’s Schools Extension atFarm?

6. With regard to the Third Avenue property, did M&CC, City Engineer and CHPA grant approval to construct the 3storey concrete building in its present form or for additional stories? If yes, for what purpose and what are the reasons for ignoring the by-laws concerning boundaries?

whether for parking, to build structures or to be used for paid services, to the prejudice of citizens. Is the use and abuse of power, the inaction and the silence due to neglect of duty, implied approval, poor governance, reluctance to act against powerful interests or administrative inaction? Whatever the reason, it undermines credibility, trust and independence, not to mention perception of bias, corruption and selective enforcement. It also sets a precedent for breaches by others.

for all Make & Model Vehicles. Call Andio: 658-6368.

FOR RENT Upper flat 3 bedroom for rent, Located Herstelling New Scheme East Bank Demerara. Contact: 265-3095 / 696-1994.

Top flat to rent, only for business, 29 Creen & Durban Street,Newburg. Contact: 604-9875.

Before building permits are granted for the remaining 2 lots on Third Avenue, Subryanville, it is imperative that the M&CC and the City Engineer carry out their statutory duties and ensure the Georgetown Building and Planning laws are complied with; CHPA must adhere to the fact that Subryanville is zoned residential with restrictive title covenants. There must be compliance of by-laws on boundaries and other matters. The rights of residents, and to maintain the value of their properties must not be castaside and ignored.

3. Why are all governmental agencies non-responsive to the enquiries of residents who are affected and who have been financially maintaining and weeding Farnum Ground for years?

4. Has anyone approved the 2 storey prefab structures, the occupancy, the health, fire safety and sanitation protocols as well as the environmental effects on the children of the different levels of schools being all together? Given that the structures are air-conditioned, was approval given for the increased electrical load in a residential community and the effect of emis-

The above breaches are not isolated. It is concerning how building and other laws can be breached and how the regulatory authorities can neglect their duties and obligations, with impunity, all to the detriment of citizens.

The view that laws can be breached, that there is an entitlement to treat community open green space as private property, for personal use or as an extension of profit making businesses must be put to rest.

A community ground or similar open space must not be used to support businesses on a permanent basis,

This blatant disregard of laws is compounded when the said M&CC, CHPA and relevant bodies refuse to disclose information and documents to residents, displaying a lack of transparency. The conversion of green space is contrary to the Presidents’ stated policy of biodiversity, promoting and developing green spaces. It is encouraging that he has recently reiterated this policy. It is time for a RESET. Past illegal conduct cannot be used as a precedent. Previous wrongs must be corrected.

Regards

Jamela Ali

We offer mobile windshield replacements & repairs by certified Technicians

Hegseth says he has every authorisation needed for Caribbean strikes

Oct 5 (Reuters) - U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said he has every authorisation needed for U S military strikes on vessels just off the coast of Venezuela allegedly carryingillegaldrugs.

Hegsethwasspeakingin a Fox News interview broadcastonSunday

The United States killed four people in a strike in the Caribbean Sea on Friday, at leastthefourthsuchattackin recent weeks “We have every authorisation needed. These are designated as f o r e i g n t e r r o r i s t organisations,”Hegsethsaid inaninterviewonFoxNews’ “TheSundayBriefing.”

He did not provide more detailsabouttheauthorisation WashingtonhascitedtheUS Constitution, war powers, designation of drug cartels as foreignterroristorganisations, the right to self-defense and international law on unlawful combatants as the legal basis forthestrikes.

Legal experts and some lawmakers argue that using military force in international waters against alleged criminals’ bypasses due process, violates law enforcement norms, lacks a clear legal foundation under U.S.andinternationallawand isnotjustifiedby the cartels’ terroristdesignation.

Hegseth and President

Donald Trump have not provided evidence for claims that the targeted boats were carrying drugs Trump told Congresslastweekthathehad determinedtheUS tobein“a non-international armed conflict” with drug cartels, without providing any new legalrationale Criticssaythe boatstrikesareafurthereffort byTrump to test the scope of hispresidentialpowers Legal experts have questioned why the military is carrying out these attacks rather than the U S Coast Guard, the country’s maritime law agency

“If you’re in our hemisphere, if you’re in the Caribbean,ifyou’renorthof Venezuela and you want to traffic drugs to the United States, you are a legitimate target of the United States military,”Hegsethsaid. Trump on Sunday said the U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean had halted drug trafficking from South America. “There’s no drugs coming into the water And we’lllookatwhatphasetwo is,” he told reporters at the White House Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Sunday told his Venezuelan counterpart that the country condemns the U.S.strikesandisconcerned about the dangers of potential U.S. escalation in theCaribbean.

Gov’t may list state shares with guaranteed returns on private stock exchange –

To inject life into Guyana’s private stock exchange, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo says the government can explore the listing of shares from lucrative government-createdprojects thatwillguaranteeinvestors areturn.

This,hesaid,isoneway the government can create

businessestoovercometheir reluctancetogopublic.

Speaking with reporters at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) on Thursday, Dr Jagdeo noted that the existing stock exchange is privatelyowned, even though its regulatorybody,theGuyana Securities Council, is a p p o i n t e d b y t h e government.

B u t t h e m a i n challenge is “A lot of the private companies in Guyana don’t want to use the exchange because going public means they have to publish their records, their audited stat

nts Some people don’t want that type of scrutiny,” the Vice President explained. He noted that companies must also pay a listing fee, which has also kept major local players off the exchange.

B e c a u s e t h e government cannot force companies to list publicly, the Vice President suggested that the government can use strategic state assets to spur the creation of trading activity and opportunities

T h i s i n v o l v e s “syphoning off” highreturn opportunities from the oil and gas sector, for example,theFertiliserPlant.

The government had previously announced that it would build a fertiliser plant following the completion of the Gas-to-Energy (GTE)

Vice President Dr Bharrat

Jagdeo

project that is being developed in Wales, RegionThree

The plan is to create a c o m p a n y f o r t h e Fertiliser Plant that can allowordinarycitizens(like teachers, nurses, and fishermen) to buy shares, perhapslimitedto100shares perperson.

According to the Vice P r e s i d e n t , t h e government will then guarantee a 10 per cent return on those shares, with the government u n d e r w r i t i n g t h e guarantee to provide a “sweetener” to investors. These will then be listed

publicly on the stock exchange “so that people canthensell.”

Ultimately, the Vice President said, the success of the stock exchange relies on the private sector recognising its value as an alternative to bank loans President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali had al

government will move to create a Junior Stock Exchange as part of a broadergovernmenteffortto deepen the country’s

options.

And according to VP Jagdeo, “he (PresidentAli) washopingthattheprivate sectorwouldalsomakefull useoftheopportunity” He made it clear that, “We are prepared to address any regulatory matter that would enable this to happen We are prepared to create the incentive for this to happen But then it’s up to the private sector to make useofit.”

A stock exchange is essentially a regulated market where shares of publicly listed companies are bought and sold, providing an avenue for businesses to raise money and for investors to make gains (DPI)

EUchiefpledgesactionaimedathalting Israel’swaronGaza

(ALJAZEERA) The European Union will implement new measures against Israel and further raise support for Ukraine, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyenhassaid.

InherannualStateofthe Union address to the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Wednesday, von der Leyen condemned the situation in Gaza as “catastrophic”, announcing planstocutsupportforIsrael andimplementsanctions.

She also noted plans to further raise support for

Ukraine, urging EU members – some of which a r e l i k e l y t o b e unenthusiastic – to rally behindthemeasuresonboth issues.

“Man-made famine can never be a weapon of war For the sake of the children, forthesakeofhumanity,this

must stop,” the EU chief declared The proposed “package of measures” includes sanctions on “extremist Israeli ministers” and settlers, a suspension of bilateral support for Israel, andasuspensionoftheEU’s association agreement with Israel, which gives it preferential access to Europeanmarkets.

“Europe needs to do more,” said von der Leyen, adding that while she would attempt to move the bloc in unison, EU member states alsoneededtotake“ourown responsibility” on the issue. “Europe’s goal has always beenthesame.Realsecurity for Israeland a safe, present future for all Palestinians,” shesaid.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar was quick to slam the EU chief and claimed that she was offering support to

Palestinian armed groups, including Hamas “The remarks made this morning by the President of the European Commission are regrettable. Some of them also echo the false propagandaofHamasandits partners,” Saar wrote on social media. “Once again, Europeissendingthewrong message, which strengthens Hamasandtheradicalaxisin theMiddleEast.”

Regarding Ukraine, von der Leyen said she was proposing a summit to coordinate international effortstosecurethereturnof Ukrainianchildrenabducted byRussia.Theuseoffrozen Russian assets to fund a “reparations loan” for Ukraine was also put forward in the speech, althoughvonderLeyensaid the bloc would not seize the assetsitself.

The address came

…toproposemeasuresagainstIsraelaswell asagainstRussiaoveritswaronUkraine

shortly after Polish and NATO forces shot down Russian drones that had violated Poland’s airspace. The EU chief branded Moscow’s actions “reckless and unprecedented”. Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the EU has imposed 18 rounds of sanctions on it, targeting its economy, individuals and key sectors such as fuel, as well as nearly 140 billion euros($164bn)insupportto Ukraine,includingfinancial, humanitarian, and military assistance.

VonderLeyensaidasthe EUpreparesits19thpackage of sanctions against Moscow, it will seek to accelerate efforts to phase out all purchases of Russian fossil fuels, as well as sanctioning the shadow oil shipping fleet used to circumvent such measures and any third countries

involved.However,Brussels is likely to encounter obstacles to such ambitions.

Unanimous agreement is required to impose sanctions, and Hungary and Slovakia remain dependent on Russian energy and have blockedpreviousactions.

The 27-member bloc also remains divided over actionregardingIsrael’swar on Gaza, which started after Hamasleddeadlyattackson southernIsraelonOctober7, 2023 Sanctions and the suspension of the trade agreementwouldrequirethe approvalofall27states,and could meet resistance from the likes of the Czech Republic, Hungary and Germany

Other member states, such as Spain or Ireland, have been calling for economiccurbsandanarms embargo against Israel for some time. Spanish Prime

Minister Pedro Sanchez has said the “double standards” demonstrated by the West overthewarsinUkraineand Gaza threaten to undermine its global standing However, other member stateshaveobstructedefforts totakeactionandcontinueto supply the Israeli military witharmsandequipment.

Ranging into other topics, von der Leyen defended the muchcriticised tariffs deal she agreed recently with Washington, saying it stabilised ties with the United States at a time of soaring global tensions and averted trade war “chaos”. ShealsoassertedthattheEU needs a new sanctions system targeting people smugglers and traffickers, adding it should be part of measures allowing the bloc to manage migration “effectively”.

HomeAffairsMinistryservicesnowdigitised

TheMinistryofHomeAffairsannounced Sunday, that all immigration and other services under its purview have been completelydigitised.

In June last year, President Irfaan Ali announced government’s plan to digitise all servicesandsubagenciesofthehomeaffairs ministry, as part of the first phase of developing its information and communications technology (ICT) Masterplan2030.

The digitisation provision will cover birth certificates, death certificates, immigration,workpermitandvisaservices. “Allofthatwearelookingtodigitiseonthis firstphaseofthisproject,”PresidentAlihad shared.

Government’s LCDS2030 outlines its ambitious plan of transitioning to egovernance leveraging digital technology to revolutionise all sectors, thereby enhancing theoperationsofpublicsectororganisations. The national e-identification project is one component of the strategy A US$34.5 millioncontracthasalreadybeensignedwith German-based company Veridos Identify Solutionstodevelopthissystem.

In December of 2022, Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo disclosed that the governmentwasseekingtoproducenewand improveddigitalnationalidentificationcards

as well as develop an e-visa portal to facilitatetheeaseofdoingbusinesshereand hassle-free travel.According to Jagdeo, the newIDcardswouldbedonewithassistance frompartnersfromtheUnitedArabEmirates andDubai.

The vice president said that the ID cards willhaveasecurechip,whichcanstoredata including blood type, date of birth, drivers’ licenceandtaxpayer’sidentificationnumber.

According to Jagdeo, the necessary legislationtoallowforthecard’susewillbe takentheNationalAssemblynextyear.

“It will be for nationals and people who areresidentinGuyana.So,ifyou’recoming toworkhere,youhaveadifferentcolorcard. Guyanese will have one color card,” he explained.ThedigitalIDcard,theVPnoted can be used at banks and other institutions withease.

“When they [Guyanese] come home, theycantakeouttheircardandjustswipeand comein.Theydon’thavetogothroughthese elaborate customs and all of that at immigration etc., making it easier for that,” heexplained.Additionally,thegovernmentis also hoping to send employees from the Immigration Office and Customs Department to the United Arab Emirates (UAE)toreceivetrainingintheoperationof thetechnology

World Trade Centre Georgetown...

Frompage8

Carlos Martinez, President of WTC Ibague (Colombia); Sharazade Kirton, Digital Marketing Director,LoewsHotelGroup;andRoger Singh-Co-Founder, Scalar Performance Inc. (Canada). Another panel then delves into: Successfully Navigating the Current Global Trade Environment, featuring Vaughn Renwick-Chief Executive Officer, West IndiesRum&SpiritsProducersAssociation (WIRSPA), Karen Gerwitz-President & CEO,WorldTradeCentreDenver/WTCA Board Member; and Abiola Heyliger, International Trade Policy Analyst/Former Trade Negotiator, United States Trade Representative’s Office, Washington DC W O R L D T R A D E C E N T E R GEORGETOWN,44HighStreet,Kingston, Georgetown, Guyana On October 23, international trade expert Sandra Ann Baptiste, CITP, will lead a one-day training seminaron“SuccessfulExhibiting:Effective PlanningandMarketingforTradeShows”. Theremainingactivitiesfortheweekwill include luncheons and networking forums engaging micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) as well as large corporations. Samaroo emphasised that the activitiesdemonstratetheCentre’slong-term mission.“TheWorld Trade Centre Georgetown will provide services, training, and international connections to help Guyanese businesses expandglobally,”hesaid.Bythecloseofthe week, WTCG aims to reinforce Guyana’s growingpositionintheinternationaltrading system.

Berbice fishermen get $14M worth

Sixty-sixfisherfolkfrom AlbionandPortMouranton the Corentyne Coast, received seine nets on Saturday to assist with their operationsatsea.

This intervention represents an investment of just over $14 million and follows a commitment made by President Dr Irfaan Ali during a meeting with fisherfolk last May AgricultureMinister,Zulfikar Mustapha, met with the fisherfolk to deliver the seine nets on behalf of the Head of State Whileofferingremarks, MinisterMustaphastatedthat each fisherfolk will receive sevenbundlesofseine

“When we met with fisherfolkattheAlbionSports Complex, they said they neededhelpwithnets We’ve been in constant contact with your representative here, and today,fisherfolkfromAlbion, andsomefromPortMourant, will each receive seven bundles of seine from the government, y o u r government,”hesaid.

Minister Mustapha also assured the fisherfolk that, overtime,theywillcontinueto benefit from additional interventions, as the government increases budgetary allocations to the sector.Henotedthatanumber of other initiatives have already been implemented to

of

seine nets

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha hands over the nets to fishermen

allocationstothesectorevery year We’vebeenresuscitating all the

olk organisations. We’ve been procuring GPS systems so thatfishermencantracktheir boats while at sea. We’ve also been working with partners both around the countryandinneighbouring countries to ease piracy I knowthattheGuyanaPolice Force has been working diligently to address that. We’ve also removed the taxes placed on fishing inputsandmadeadjustments to the tax structure, making outboard engines of 1,500 horsepower and under dutyfree,”heexplained.

Minister Mustapha further stated that the other agencies within the Ministry

“Ifyoulookatour2025to 2030manifesto,youwillsee thatwehavealotofplansfor thefisheriessector Wedon’t want fisherfolk to depend on artisanal fishing alone We have to diversify the sector From the ministry’s perspective,wearelookingto get you involved into additional activities so that you can supplement your income In the coming months, you’ll see officials from the different agencies working along with you to get involved in additional activities so that you can supplementyourincome.

He also said that the government will be investing in cold storage facilities and put systems in place to link fisherfolk directlytomarkets.

Hydromet marks 60 years

safer and better prepared communities.”

Servicelastweekcelebrated six decades of quietly shaping the country’s national development, from sugar estates of the past to modern high-tech weather models.

Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, VickashRamkissoon,hailed the hydromet’s role in agriculture, aviation, disaster preparedness, and national infrastructure at a commemorative service, whichwasheldonFridayat the office headquarters on Brickdam,Georgetown.

“Overthepastfiveyears alone, from 2020 to 2025, the government of Guyana, under the leadership of Dr Mohammed Irfaan Ali and our substantive Minister of

ulture, Zu

ikar Mustapha,hasinvestedover $ 6 0 0 m i l l i o n i n strengthening hydromets, infrastructure and capabilities,” the minister stated.

Hefurthernotedthatthe investments “protected crops, safe flights, made

Minister Ramkissoon likened hydromet to the engine of a vehicle, not always in the spotlight, but powering the nation every single day From rainfall records on sugar estates to modern forecasting models, hydromet has proven that while its work may not always make headlines, its impact runs deep, weathering storms for Guyana, then, now and into thefuture.

He noted too that the government is seeking to improve Guyana’s disaster preparedness and response while building its climate resilience. Additionally, a new automatic weather station is being installed in everyregion.Thiswillallow for real-time collection and transmission of weather data, which is accessible to local, regional and international stakeholders Meanwhile, in the coming days, two meteorological buoyswillbedeployed,and they will be fitted with the requisite oceanographic and meteorological sensors,

which will improve understanding of Guyana’s coastal and maritime environments.

Theministeremphasised the importance of the People’s Progressive Party Civic Administration’s effortstoimprovetheoiland gas sector, support the fishing industry, and e n h a n c e d i s a s t e r preparednessforcoastaland maritimerisks.

T h e Hydrometeorological Service was established on October 5, 1965, at the recommendation of representativesoftheWorld M e t e o r o l o g i c a l Organisation. In its early years of operation, the service was under the purview of the Ministry of Works and Hydraulics; however, in 1992, it was transferredtotheMinistryof Agriculture Hydromet is responsible for monitoring and evaluating weather and water resources in Guyana. It supports the government in disaster risk management andprovidesweather,water, and timely climate information.(DPI)

Anisimova fights off Noskova challenge to win China Open

BEIJING,

China, (Reuters)-Two-timeGrand Slam finalist Amanda Anisimova won her second WTA 1000 title of the year on Sunday, brushing off a second-set stumble to beat Linda Noskova 6-0 2-6 6-2 intheChinaOpenfinal.

Czech Noskova, who had prevailed in a two-anda-half hour battle against Jessica Pegula in Saturday’s

semi-finals , struggled to keep up with Anisimova’s powerandspeed.

“It’s been an incredible few weeks... we had a lot of c h a l l e n g e s , ” s a i d

Anisimova, who had to withdraw from last month’s Korea Open due to an ankle injury

“It’s crazy that we made itthisfar,andgettingthewin today has been special,”

added the 24-year-old, who also beat sixth seed Jasmine Paolini and second seed CocoGauffonherwaytothe final.

World number four Anisimova picked precise angles to bounce the ball near the sidelines and frustrate Noskova, blanking the 20-year-old in just 23 minutes.

Noskova,unfazedbythe

bagel in her firstWTA1000 final, got a break in the first game of the second set, before saving two break points with an ace and powerful backhands to take a decisive 4-2 lead against theAmerican.

However, Anisimova, runner-upatWimbledonand the U.S. Open this year, imposedherwillagaininthe third set, winning four straight games against an exhausted Noskova to secure her fourth career WTAtitle.

Monday October 06, 2025

ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)

Today you will have all the energy you need to deal with long-term family problems. Indeed, you'll probably clash with some of your relatives. But this situation won't cause anyseriousissues.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

You enjoy caring for others andyouinterveneregularlyin their lives to guide them. Ironically, today you're the one who needs advice. You'll probably need to get away from it all in order to get a clearviewofyourownlife.

GEMINI(May21–June20)

We all have to make compromises in order to live in contemporary society.You may have strong beliefs, but it's difficult to combine your idealsandasociallife.

CANCER(June21–July22)

You'vealwaysfelttheneedto free yourself from society You need to feel independent at any cost. You may need to face certain relationship problemsatthistime.

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

You may feel annoyed about the attitude of some of your groupoffriends.Unlikethese people, you're very openmindedandyoucandealwith situations as they arise Indeed, you have a natural ability to adapt to every situation.

VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)

Today, Virgo, you'll be submerged under a lot of emotions. In a way, you'll be revisiting your childhood

Youmaybeveryedgy Thisis agooddispositioninwhichto analyzeyourlife.

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

You really know how to seduce,Libra.Thereisaspark inside of you that spreads naturally to those around you. You have a big reservoir of sensitivity and emotion that couldgrowtoday

SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)

You're a very active person, Scorpio, but today you'll probably be disappointed. If you ask those around you to help with your activities, they most likely won't understand yourneeds.

SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)

Nothing much is happening today, yet you seem worried and tense. You'll have to use this day to your advantage. Think about your life. You'll also think about the needs of yourrelativesintheyears.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)

You often need to thrive on personal emotions.Today will benoexceptiontotherule.For instance, you could try to captivate the attention of peopleyouadmire.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) You shouldn't try to fight the feelings that run through you today Don't even try to rationalize them These feelingsareprobablyrelatedto emotions dating back to your childhood You shouldn't avoidoranalyzethem.

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)

You'll be lost in your thoughts today, analyzing your life and relationships.You'll be asking yourself if your existence is meeting your standards. You will ponder what to expect from the future and from the peoplearoundyou.

Gymkhana Horse Racing showdown set for October 12 at GTC

Getreadyforthundering hooves and heart-pounding action as The Three Men Promotion brings the heat withaone-day,winner-takeallhorseracingextravaganza thisSunday,October12that the Georgetown Turf Club, Mocha, East Bank of Demerara.

Eachhorsewilltacklesix furlongs of raw speed and strategy $1.5 million is up forgrabsinthiswinner-takeall battle, and with the turf track primed for speed, it’s trulyanyone’srace.

“I definitely wasn’t coming here feeling that I’d play in the final, so it was a nice surprise, ” said Noskova,ranked27thinthe world,whohaslosttwiceto Anisimovathisyear

“I just want to congratulate Amanda You’ve been playing amazing through this whole year Actually, you’ve been morethanannoyingtoallof us,”Noskovajoked.

A n i s i m o v a congratulated Noskova for her performance in the tournament, with the 20year-old beating two top-10 seeds in Beijing, including local favourite Zheng Qinwen.

“You’re also so young still,soI’msurewe’llhavea lot more finals to play,” Anisimovasaid.

Alfred returns home to hero’s welcome...

Frompage62 the World Championships, said she was pleased with h e r p e r f o r m a n c e s throughouttheseason.

“As I reminisce and I thinkabouttheseasonIhad, eventhoughitdidn’tendthe wayIwanteditto,I’mvery proud to bring home a bronzemedal.Thefirst-ever for St Lucia. The highlight of my season is just the amountofStLuciansIsaw, whereverIgo,theamountof flags That will be the highlight of my season this year.”

PresidentoftheStLucia Athletics Association, Dora Henry congratulated Alfred for flying the St Lucia flag high whenever she stepped on the track, and described her as a “shining example” of determination and excellence.

“Julien, you are our pride, our star, and our lasting inspiration,” Henry said.

Dubbed the Gymkhana Horse Race Meeting, this is no ordinary meet, this is a throwdown where tradition meets adrenaline. The term “Gymkhana,” rooted in the Persian Jamat-khana, once described skill-based contests. This Sunday, it means one thing: who’s the fastestonthetrack?

The event is billed for two feature Races and one massive payoff. The card’s highlights include; theTwoYear-Old Maiden (Guyana Bred) showdown and a noholds-barred three-horse match race featuring the unstoppable Top Ranking, the bold Risky Affairs, and thefearlessWorldBoss.

Promoter Compton Sancho promises fireworks: “The race will be an equal battleofthetitans Thetrackis in excellent shape and we awaitsomeexcitingactionthis Sunday.”

But it’s more than just racing, it’s a family affair. Expect added attractions, livelyenergy,andachanceto be part of history as one champion rides off with the crownandthecash

Meanwhile, jockeys can stillgetinontheaction Todo so, contact; Michael Sims on 675-4894,ComptonSanchoat 748-0963 and Joel Primo: 621-6503 The countdown is on Theturfisready Willyour favouritehorsetaketheglory? BetherethisSunday Mocha istheplace.TheGymkhana, themoment.

Alfred returns home to hero’s welcome

returned from her historic outing at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo to a major reception

on Thursday at the Hewanorra International Airport.

Alfred, the reigning Olympic champion in the women’s 100 metres, claimed 100 bronze last month to capture her country’s first-ever medal at theWorldChampionships

The homecoming

ceremony was attended by officialsfromtheMinistryof Youth Development and Sports,theStLuciaOlympic Committee, the St Lucia Athletics Association and the St Lucia Tourism Authority

“Welcomehome.Weare eternallyproudofyou,”said Sports Minister Kenson Casimirashegreetedthe24year-old Alfred on the tarmac.

Alfred, who was among thefavouritestowingoldat (Continuedonpage61)

Cricket West Indies President issues statement on passing of Legend Bernard Julien

PresidentofCricketWest Indies Dr. Kishore Shallow has issued a statement sharing thoughts on the life of former West Indies and Trinidad and Tobago cricketerBernardJulienwho diedaged75. Thestatement reads:

The passing of Bernard Julien invites reflection on both the brilliance of his cricketing life and the complex times through which he lived. His career reminds us that the story of West Indies cricket is not only about triumphs on the field but about the choices and circumstances that shaped generations of playersandtheregionitself.

Bernard Julien was one of the quiet legends of the 1975 World Cup, a tournament that fifty years ago brought this region joy like no other as the West Indies lifted the first men’s world title in the history of the game His skill and composure were central to thatvictory Hetook4for20 against Sri Lanka, 4 for 27 against New Zealand, and 2 for 38 in the final at Lord’s, along with a vital 26 not out

that helped seal the championship.

Inall,Bernardplayed24 Test matches for the West Indies,scoring866runsatan average of 30.92 and taking 50 wickets at 37.36. In One Day Internationals, he claimed18wicketsat25.72.

As a left arm swing bowler, hisdeliverywassmoothand rhythmic,capableofmoving the ball both ways. With the bat, he combined balance andcontrolwithunderstated confidence.Hewasadmired for his calm temperament and thoughtful approach to the game, a player who brought intelligence and integrity to every performance.

His international career cametoanendfollowinghis participation in the 1982–83 and 1983–84 tours to South

Africa,duringaperiodwhen the world of sport was sharplydividedbythemoral and political challenges of apartheid. Those decisions reflected the difficult realities of that era and the pressures faced by players navigating competing demands of opportunity, c o n s c i e n c e , a n d circumstance.

As we honour Bernard Julien,wealsorecognisethe importance of reflection and inclusion.Thetimehascome to view that chapter of our history not through exclusion but through understanding. Cricket West Indies believes that all who have contributed to our regional game, in whatever context, are part of our shared story Therefore, the day will be deeply s i g n i f

CARICOM, with grace, undertakes a regional act of acknowledgement and pardon, embracing both the living and the departed, as a quiet but profound tribute to the full journey of West Indiescricket.

To the family, friends, and loved ones of Bernard Julien, we extend our deepest condolences His passingremindsusthatalife devoted to purpose never trulyleavesus.

Cricket West Indies stands with you in this momentofloss,andwehope Bernardknewhewasvalued and loved by the cricketing family he helped to shape, and that he found peace knowing his contribution willalwaysendure.

Mayherestinpeace.

Trinidad Express - St Lucia’s track queen Julien Alfred

Rosanna Fung mines gold at Mexico PRO Show

-Guyana’sFitnessstarclaimsfirst Provictory,eyesOlympiaStage

Rosanna Fung, one of Guyana’s rising stars in professional bodybuilding, made history over the weekendasshecapturedher first professional win at the prestigious Mexico Pro Show Wellness Weekend,

part of the globally renownedIFBBProLeague.

The event, staged in the heart of Mexico City, saw elite athletes from around the world battling for top honours. But it was Fung whostolethespotlightinher division, showcasing a remarkable blend of poise, power, and wellness aesthetics that wowed the judges and solidified her place among the sport’s elite.

With this impressive victory, Fung not only earned vital qualification points toward the Olympia stage, the sport’s most coveted platform but also made a powerful statement as a proud ambassador of Guyana on the global bodybuildingstage.

This win marks a major milestone in Fung’s career, as it is her first professional win since turning pro, and a testament to her dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence.

In a statement from the

Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation Inc , officials beamed with pride:

“Miss Rosanna Fung has done it! She claimed first place, representing Guyana with unwavering soul, passion, sacrifice, discipline, and dedication. Her triumph is not just a personal victory it is a momentofnationalpride.”

“On behalf of the Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation Inc., we salute her and her team. Congratulations! You have made Guyana proud. You havemadeusproud.”

Meanwhile, speaking after her win, an emotional Fungsharedherthoughtson the landmark victory: “This winmeanseverythingtome.

I’ve poured my heart, soul, and years of hard work into thisjourney Tostandonthat stage, hear my name called, andknowIwasrepresenting G u y a n a i t w a s overwhelming. I hope this inspiresyoungathletesback home to believe that with discipline and belief, anythingispossible.”

Fungnowsetshersights firmly on qualifying for the Olympia, the pinnacle of professional bodybuilding, where only the world’s best standachancetocompete.

Sinner retires with cramp in Shanghai, Djokovic advances in ‘brutal’ conditions

SHANGHAI, Oct

5(Reuters)-JannikSinner’s bid to retain his Shanghai Masters title ended in agonisingfashiononSunday when the world number two was forced to retire midmatch against Tallon Griekspoor due to debilitating cramp in humid conditions.

Griekspoor was leading the third-round clash 6-7(3) 7-53-2whenSinnersuffered cramp in his thigh, forcing him to retire after more than 2-1/2hoursoncourt.

“Thisisdefinitelynotthe wayyouwanttowin.Brutal conditions here in Shanghai all week,” said Griekspoor, who had lost all six encounters against Sinner priortoSunday’smatch.

“Ithoughtwewerestilla little bit lucky to play in the eveningwithoutthesun.But twohoursand36minuteson theclock,middleofthethird set... I’m sorry for him, I wish him a speedy recovery.”

Sinner had begun to struggle in the second set, leading him to frantically applyanicetowelaroundhis neckatchangeovers.

Thedefendingchampion was visibly limping and massaging his thigh in the decider and in the sixth game, he limped back to his

chair with the help of the physio before he was forced tomakethecalltoretire.

DJOKOVICSEEKSFIFTH SHANGHAITITLE

Sinner’s retirement and world number one Carlos Alcaraz’s withdrawal due to an ankle injury blows the drawwideopen,withNovak Djokovic in the hunt for a record-extendingfifthtitlein Shanghai.

The 38-year-old fourth seed battled past Yannick Hanfmannwitha4-67-56-3 victoryinamatchthatlasted twohoursand45minutes.

“It’s the same for every player out on the court, but it’s brutal,”

Djokovic said when describing the conditions inShanghai

“It’s brutal when you have over 80% of

humidity day after day, particularly for the guys when they’re playing during the day with heat, with sun, it’s even more brutal.

“For me, biologically it’sabitmorechallenging to deal with it But I had to really weather the storm today Yannick played an incredible matchfromthebeginning.”

Italy’s Jannik Sinner receives medical attention before retiring due to an injury in his round of 32 match against Netherlands’Tallon Griekspoor. (REUTERS/Go Nakamura TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY)

Russell wins Singapore Grand Prix, McLaren take constructors’ title

S I N G A P O R E , (Reuters) - George Russell drove a flawless race from pole position to win the Singapore Grand Prix for Mercedes on Sunday, leaving Red Bull’s world champion Max Verstappen and the two McLarens to fight it out for the other podiumspots.

Briton Russell took the chequered flag under the lights of the Marina Bay street circuit 5.4 seconds clear of Verstappen to claim his second victory of the season.

“It feels amazing,” said Russell. “We don’t really k n o w w h e r e t h i s performancecamefrom,but really,reallyhappy

“I was really nervous at the beginning when I saw Max on the soft (tyres), but thatfirststintwasgreatfrom us.”

Lando Norris put pressure on Verstappen towards the end of the race but had to settle for third ahead of teammate Oscar Piastri, the pair earning enough points to seal a second consecutive constructors’ title for McLaren.

“It was a tough race,” said Norris. “Max didn’t makeanymistakes.Igaveit myalltoday,andgotclose.

“I’m happy with today I got forward two positions. We won as a team, the constructors’onceagain.” Piastri’sleadoverBriton Norris in the drivers’ standings was cut to 22 points, while Verstappen is 63 points behind the Australian with six races remainingintheseason.

“I think second was the maximumresulttoday,”said Verstappen.

“I think the whole race was quite difficult, more difficultthanIhopefor,fora

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton, McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and McLaren’s Lando Norris in action during the race. (REUTERS/Athit Perawongmetha)

inside, I had a small correction,butnothingmore than that, it was good racing,”Norrissaid.

The stewards gave the incident the all-clear and McLaren said they would look at it after the race with Piastri again railing at what hesaidwastheunfairnessof thedecision.

“I thought that in the moment, obviously first lap, tensions are high,” saidPiastri

“We’re obviously encouraged to share our views on what happened, and I did that, and I’m sure we’lldiscussitmore.”

lotofdifferentreasons.”

The celebrations for the constructors’ title in the McLaren garage might be muted,however,withPiastri fuming at the way Norris forced his way past his teammate on the opening corner

Kimi Antonelli was a distant fifth in the other Mercedes with Charles Leclercfinishingsixthahead of his Ferrari teammate LewisHamilton.

Hamilton was later docked a five-second

penalty for repeatedly leaving the track as he struggled with a braking issue,droppinghimtoeighth with Aston Martin’s FernandoAlonsomovingup toseventh.

Haas driver Oliver Bearman was ninth and CarlosSainz,whostartedat thebackofthegridafterthe Williams cars were d is qu alif ied f r o m qualifying, took the final pointsin10th

“IT’SRACING” Russell got away to a

clean start from pole with Verstappen behind him but Norris, who started fifth, clipped the back of the Dutchman’s Red Bull as he forcedhiswayuptheinside ofPiastrionthefirstcorner Norris sustained some damage to the front end of his car and Piastri expressedhisdiscontenton the team radio at his teammate’s manoeuvre, accusing the Briton of “barging him out of the way”

“It’sracing,Iputitonthe

Verstappen was the first of the leaders to pit and tore around the track toensureNorriswouldnot be able to undercut him when the Briton changed histyressevenlapslater Norris asserted his right as McLaren’s lead driver to pit ahead of Piastri, whose discontent with the team would not have been improved by a notablyslowerstopthanhis teammate.

Verstappen was 3 5 seconds behind Russell at the halfway stage and ended the race clinging on to keep second place from Norris rather than chasing athirdstraightracewin.

‘Sensational’ Slingerz FC win GFF Elite League in dominant fashion

Slingerz Football Club officially stamped their authority as kings of Guyana’stop-flightfootball, following a commanding 10–1 victory over Monedderlust FC on Saturday night at the GFF NationalTrainingCentre.

The result confirmed the Vergenoegen-basedoutfitas 2025 GFF Elite League champions, clinching the title with two matches to spare.

It marks Slingerz FC’s second Elite League title, followingtheirleaguewinin the inaugural 2015/2016 season, before parting ways

with the League due to conflicts with the Guyana FootballFederation(GFF).

Nearlyadecadelater,the “WestSide”powerhousehas reclaimed its place at the summit of Guyanese football, and done so in emphaticfashion.

Last season, despite finishing unbeaten, Slingerz fell short of the title to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

Determined not to leave anydoubtsthistimearound, theclubregroupedunderthe leadershipofformerGolden Jaguars head coach, Jamaal Shabazz, and set out to

dominate the league from starttofinish.

And dominate they did. Saturday’s win over Monedderlustwastheir15th in 16 games, with only a single draw, a 1–1 result against Western Tigers, preventing a perfect season sofar

The champions have scored a staggering 102 goals, conceding just four, thefewestintheleague,and sit on an unassailable 46 points.

Neither of their closest challengers, the Guyana Police Force FC (maximum possible43points)norGDF

2025GCA/Dave’sWestIndiesInc.

1stDivision50-OversTournament…

Runs continued to flow yesterdayas1stDivision50Over cricket continued with sizzling battles, including a scorching155fromGarfield Benjamin, which headlined yesterday’saction.

Police beat GDF by 63 runs

At Eve Leary PSC batting first, posted a big total in 345 all out after Guyana Harpy Eagles

wicket-keeper Kemol Savory smashed 7 sixes and 3fourstofinishon69off51 balls.

Agritty 53 from skipper

Kanayia Ramkarram, Pernell London (37), CPL breakout star Quentin Sampson who nailed an 18ball35with4sixeskeptthe toptogether But some fiery cameos from Harpy Eagles allrounder Anthony Adams (34) alongside Dwain Dick (31) and Chemroy Kendall (30);wrappingupacohesive battingexhibition.

Theexperiencedhandof Leon Andrews returned 4 wickets for GDF, with 2 wicketsapiececomingfrom spinner Nigel Deodat and ShamalAngel. GDF in reply seemingly let down the breathtaking knock 155 not out from Garfield Benjamin, who nailed 17 fours and 5 sixes, as he tried to take his team home.

Deodat supported with a quick 45-ball 68 with 6 maximums and a pair of fours but GDF could only muster 282 before being bowledoutin39overs Dick (2-53), Adams (2-47) and Ramkarran (266) suffered a few blows at hands of Benjamin, but recovered quickly to see theirteamtoavictory Everest beat Transport by5wickets

Openers Romeo Deonarine (65) and Riyad Latiff (64) alongside number 3 batsman Jadon

FC (maximum 41 points), cancatchthem.

Ironically, both clubs willfaceSlingerzinthefinal two matchdays; Police on October 18, and GDF in what promises to be a grand finaleonOctober25.

Against Monedderlust, Slingerz came out firing, putting on a masterclass of attacking football They racedtoa5–0halftimelead, showing no mercy to a side that simply couldn’t contain theirpaceandprecision.

Forward Darron Niles was in sensational form, grabbing yet another hattrick (40’, 55’, 56’) while dazzling fans with his creativeplaymaking.

Derrel Garcia (19’, 74’) and top scorer Kemar Beckford (31’, 35’) both netted braces, continuing their prolific partnership up front.

Richie

Campbell (55) pushed Transport to 255 all out b

Demerara Cricket Club (DCC)Ground

Wickets from pacer

Chris Harry (3-47) and

We

Indies Test opener Assad Fudadin (3-46), headlined Everest’bowlingefforts

Chasing a decent total, Everest was led by a classy 91 not out with 11 fours and 3 sixes from Eagles player, Richie Looknauth which piloted them to 256-5 in 43 4 overs

Fellow Harpy Eagles

Matthew Nandu chipped in with 68 (9x4) with help

Balgobin (34), capping off an easy win; within Myheim Khan (2-54) and Latiff (2-58) being lone

Ross)

Nicholi Andrews (22’), Curtez Kellman (82’), and Jean-Heim McFree (86’) added the finishing touches t o a n e a r- p e r f e c t performance.

Monedderlust managed a late consolation through Niron Thom in the 90th minute, closing their campaign in fifth place with 24 points, just one ahead of Santos FC, who faced GDF FCthefollowingevening.

Meanwhile, in other Saturday action, Ann’s Grove United ended their season on a high with a 5–2 win over Mainstay Gold Star

Jamaine Samuels (71’, 84’) led the way with a double, while Niron Jerrick (9’), Jadon Vangronigen (15’), and Shuaib Berkshire (86’)alsofoundthenet.

For Mainstay, Damion Lynch (63’) and Calvin Richmond (90’+3’) got on the scoresheet, but their team’s campaign will be remembered for all the wrongreasons.

Mainstay Gold Star’s debutseasonwillgodownas oneofthemostdisastrousin Elite League history, concedingarecord205goals and scoring just 10, while losingall18matches.

For Ann’s Grove, the victory keeps them in

seventh place on 16 points, but they’ll have to watch their backs as Den Amstel and Fruta Conquerors (both on 12 points) still have two games in hand and are fightingtoavoidthedreaded ninth-placerelegationspot. As the curtain nears its close,thestoryoftheseason belongs to Slingerz FC, a teamthatreturnedtothebig stage and conquered it in style.

With two games remaining, the new champions aren’t done yet. Their next goal? Finish the seasonunbeatenandremind the nation that the “West Side” still runs Guyana football.

Darren Niles bagged a hat-trick and dazzled with his play-making skills against Monedderlust.

Riyad Latiff

Looknauth Garfield Benjamin

Elite League Champions! Slingerz FC following their 10-1 win over Monedderlust which solidified their title.

That winning moment!

Guyana’s Rosanna Fung claims first Pro Gold in Mexico.